Thursday, September 20, 2012

Open Letter To Brent Black

Dear Brent Black:
First of all, hello. How are you? I hope you are well.

Secondly, thanks for reading my blog. I struggle to keep up with posting new articles; I'm a full time professor and father of a two and a half year old, so with all of that going on, and playing the occasional gigs, it's hard to find the time to sit down and write.(At this very moment, my son is watching "Wibbly Pig" on TV right now, so that's a little distracting at the moment. But I shall press on.....)

I have also read some of your writing. As you know, I was critical of your review of Nicholas Payton's "Bitches" back in December of 2011. I believe you have the right to your opinion; however, I felt you were a little bit harsh regarding Payton's singing.(It seemed more like a personal attack than an objective review, which is why I felt the need to defend Payton.) However, at that time, I read many of your other reviews, and I admired your good taste and solid writing. I think, even if we disagree over some things, I think we could find common ground on quite a lot of music.

Your recent post, entitled "Amanda Palmer:Who Cares?"(September 18th, 2012), refers to what I said on my latest blog post ("Amanda Palmer:Musician, Nude Model, Scientologist, D#&*hebag"). The main point of my article was that Palmer, after getting 1.2 million dollars from a Kickstarter campaign, published a call to have local musicians join her on stage in every city of her world tour for a couple of songs. However, instead of offering to pay the musicians in actual money, she offered the following:

we will feed you beer, hug/high-five you up and down (pick your poison), give you merch, and thank you mightily for adding to the big noise we are planning to make.

Palmer went on to insist that the musicians should actually know "HOW TO PLAY YOUR INSTRUMENT!" before showing up to not only an unpaid performance, but an unpaid rehearsal as well. As a professional musician, I felt that this was wrong. And I'm glad to see from your update that Palmer is now planning to pay her musicians. As I said, it's a tax write off; and with all that dough from the Kickstarter, she will need to see a good accountant.

But what I am having trouble trying to figure out is the correlation between my negative description of Palmer's music and the fact that I have hired a publicist on two occasions. In your words:

The irony here being that George Colligan admitted on the same blog that he once paid a publicist 3k in hopes of getting a good review. Take a long hard look in the mirror George, before you trash an artist that you are seemingly not familiar with or fork over another 3 large remember this...

When you point 1 finger you have three coming back at you...A second rate pianist at best should know when he is over stepping his reach. You did not hesitate to attempt to try and trash me and my reputation over my review of Nicholas Payton's Bitches and now you are doing the exact same thing...

Pot meet kettle...Kettle meet pot...

First of all, I checked out enough of Palmer's music to have an informed opinion. I admit, I was probably harsher than I should have been. However, if you check out some of her videos, you might get the impression that she is more of a performance artist than a songwriter. And the fact that she wasn't paying musicians really bothered me. But I will say that she is, considering the genre, not the worst singer I've heard. At best, I'll just say I'm not a fan of her music. Maybe she's really serious about music. Judging from her nude and semi nude videos, it seems like she's more concerned with her image. Unfortunately, as I alluded to in the blog, I think that musicians almost have to be visually shocking these days to become famous. You can't merely come out on stage and play; there has to be something OUTRAGEOUS. This is why most jazz doesn't get much attention. There's no sideshow; it's merely music.

Now, to be clear, I have no interest in shifting my own focus to nude videos and a shocking image in order to gain more notoriety as a jazz musician. However, I feel the need to explain to you the way publicity works. You make it sound like I am the first and only jazz musician who ever paid a publicist. I must inform you that this is the norm; most jazz musicians who want to publicize their CD have to hire a publicist in order to get reviews in major publications. This is absolutely a fact. And unfortunately, publicists don't work for free. Whether it be hiring a publicist, or buying ads, or whatever, the more you spend, the better your chances in getting reviews and articles. There's just no way to break through the massive amounts of CDs being released without some kind of marketing. One might have created the greatest music that has ever been heard; without some kind of campaign, it won't see the light of day. A CD without some kind of publicity is like a presidential candidate without any advertising and campaign appearances. They raise millions of dollars for the sole purpose of publicity. This seems to be how our society works now, much to my dismay.

I guess you thought I was trashing Palmer, but you think I shouldn't have because I also want good reviews for myself? I don't really see the correlation. I guess you thinking is that, since I'm the only musician that ever paid a publicist, that I must be desperate for positive reviews. Sure, I'd like some positive reviews-who doesn't? And maybe the fact that I'm a musician also makes it unfair that I should judge Palmer so harshly. That might be true.

Perhaps, in fairness, I should let Palmer blog about my music. I can see her review now:

 "....Colligan sounds like he knows how to play the piano, but I imagine that he would look terrible if he appeared naked in his videos."

(I have my doubts that she knows anything about jazz.)

Also, I really never intended to "trash your reputation". I took issue with your comments on Payton; I have nothing personally against you as a human being or a writer. Unfortunately, the entire "Bitches" incident really got out of hand; I think that things got a little too heated in the comment section of my blog. Sometimes, when people feel strongly about certain things, they tend to get defensive and stand their ground. (Some of the issue is that the internet is not the same as talking to someone; I wonder if you and I, and Nick Payton and Dwayne Burno were all in one room, would it really be as contentious as it was in cyberspace?) If you think I trashed your reputation, then I am sorry.

Finally, in regards to your labeling of me as a "second-rate pianist": part of me wonders if you have ever heard any of my music. If you have, and you still feel like I'm second rate, then I'll accept that. I've recorded a bunch of CDs as a leader and a sideman, and there are many clips of my music on youtube, so it wouldn't be impossible to find an example of my piano playing or composing. I don't think of myself as second-rate. Maybe I'm more second-tier, or third tier. Honestly, when I hear all the great pianists out there, living or dead, I think of myself as not even close to fourth-rate. Any jazz pianist who has sat at Bradley's and heard two or three sets of Geoffrey Keezer, or Mulgrew Miller, or Kenny Barron, or James Williams, or Dave Kikosi, or Harold Mabern, or Benny Green,  would probably just want to cry rather than rate themselves among the first tier of pianists! And you might not want to hear this, but I believe Nicholas Payton is actually a better pianist than I. (I subbed in his band about 10 years ago, and during one of the sound checks, he played so much piano that I wanted to quit. It's true. I know you don't like his singing, but he can play instruments!)

After all, those who can't, teach. And those who really can't get tenure track jobs at universities! Ha! So in a way, you are right. If I was first rate, maybe I would have more gigs!

Anyway, I just wanted to say that I don't hate you, and I actually would hope that if you were ever in Portland, Oregon, you would look me up, and maybe we could have a civilized conversation. I think we probably could find a lot in common.

I wish you all the best with your blog and your future endeavors.

Regards,

George Colligan

95 comments:

  1. You admit you were a bit to harsh on Palmer. Thanks for confirming my post. Since Palmer is clearly not a jazz musician I am not sure why you felt the need to unleash your venom against her much like you accused me of doing with Ol' Nick Payton thus...pot/kettle you were doing the exact same thing you charged me with. Yes George, I am familiar with your work with the latest having you do some session work on Josh Ginsburg's latest release on Anzic. Sorry, I stand by my critical remarks of your work. In the overly crowded jazz piano pool you are not even remotely close to being at the top of the list for a great many writers. Just an opinion. Not an idictment. I never thought you hated me, in fact your opinion of me is meaningless in the grand scheme of things. I appreciate you being man enough to apologize. I actually pulled my review of Payton because to be perfectly honest, much like Palmer - he deserves zero attention. The fact your insecurity has gone into over drive as opposed to good judgement speaks for itself. If one is secure in their beliefs and opinions then defending same show a tremendous chink in your armor. And thank you, I am doing fine. Sounds like you are aware of my kidney disease.Hope you are fine as well. While Portland is a lovely city, looking you up would not even cross my mind. But again, thanks for the public apology. Things did get heated and no one can say they were without blame. Back to the topic at hand...If a musician chooses to "volunteer" his or her services so be it. Personally I think very little of Palmer on an artistic level so you and I actually do agree. But much like Payton and his record which barely charted while Jeremy Pelt's last two releases are still on Jazzweek - why bother? I don't hate you either, so be well and good luck to you - in this economy we could all use a break.

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  2. and for the spelling police out there. i have written 9 articles in the past two days so i am a bit tired. please feel free to rip me to shreds, i'm sure mom would be proud you caught a typo. Dwayne Burno? Hmmm did not appear on the latest Orrin Evans...No wonder it sounded so good. If second rate hurt your feelings George then I can apologize for that, it fits Burno far better. Take care...

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    1. WOW.... Brent. I just hope we one day meet in person. There is so much I'd love to say to you. How about a live panel Mr. Black. You can moderate it and I'll start with a panel featuring Burno, Evans, Payton, and whoever else you would like to speak with in person like real men do. Have a great day!

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  3. George, number one I think you are one of the "baddest" piano players I have ever heard. Of the recordings I've heard of you, and the live performances I've seen, your level of artistry is top notch among us musicians. And how do I know this, because I know jazz music. And I also know this; some of the greatest musicians out there are never publicized enough, or at all for that matter. So this "you aren't in the latest issue of Downbeat" for example, is a bunch of BS to me. I think almost all jazz publications are BS because most of the writers, editors, and so called critics involved have no sense of what It takes to be a creative musician. Everyone is entitled for their opinion, but to get paid for and published for having a bad opinion is upsetting to me. And yes, I said "BAD" opinion, cause there is such thing. For example, I know very little about the art of dance. For me to give an opinion to my friend about an Alvin Ailey Dance Theater show, no matter if its positive or negative, is one thing. But to have that opinion published across the world, based on my little knowledge, is a "bad" opinion, and is thus irresponsible.

    That being said, I think you have every right to harshly critique this Amanda Palmer person because you KNOW music. Its evident in your playing. In fact, I think people like you should be the writers and critics and editors of these music publication magazines. Its because you have CREDIBILITY, and the credentials to back it up.

    Now, some may think "Who is this Brian Hogans guy to say all this stuff?". Number one, I kinda like not being well known, cause it surprises the hell out of people when they finally hear my music. Number 2, I stand by my credibility and knowledge to say these things. I'm a "scary good" musician, not by my own admission, but from what other people say about me. Lots of people. And I feel like you are the same, "scary good".

    All things considered, I felt the need to say these things because I want to have your back as a fellow musician. I wish you would critique more of these so called "artists", because the world needs more people like you who can give an informed opinion, even if its harsh. I also felt like posting this because I need to stop being afraid of giving my "well informed" opinion. Lastly, don't let the haters get to you. Haters hate on people they really want to be.

    Brian Hogans

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  4. Hi Brian, I know who you are and have written several positive things about you not that you would obviously care. I wanted to address one important point you missed. I have no issue with George publishing his opinion. However you never publish or post anything you are not intellectually capable of defending. I have published harsh pieces before, George took offense to mine because of his friendship and past association with Payton - he even said as much here. Credibility much like taste is subjective, I have played tenor sax for 25 years but is George a better musician then me? Of course, he is a professional he should be. I have also worked as a reporter for the local ABC affiliate here and have a degree in music. So again, credibility is up to the individual. I am not a "hater" of George - simply giving my two cents. If you like it fine. If not, I am not terribly concerned either way. I do think George's piece on Amanda was hypocritical at best based on our previous encounter but you obviously missed the point I made that it is better to pass her by. The worst review you can give an artist is none at all...think about it. Take Care and I love your playing.

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  5. George - Billy Childs here. I agree with everything that Brian Hogans said, especially the part about having your back as a fellow musician. I think you're one of the great ones out there. Anybody who's worked a lifetime to achieve the level, as a musician, that you've achieved deserves ultimate respect, not someone insulting them. I also appreciate your blog and your viewpoints; they are always tempered with logic and insight. To me (and most likely, everybody on this supposed "overly crowded list of greatest piano players") a music critic's (AKA glorified music fan's) opinion of where you fit in on that list, doesn't mean shit. In fact, there is no list as far your peers are concerned; only your reputation. And I'm telling you, your reputation is stellar and way fucking in tact.

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  6. If Burno isn't a "first-rate" than who is? It seems many critics tend to disparage things that are conventional in nature as opposed to some "modern science project". George is a first-rate jazz piano player who just happens to be 2nd tier or 3rd tier from a "name value" point-of-view. Some of the finest jazz piano players in New York (which means the universe unless there are some Vulcan jazz piano players we don't know about) are first-rate players but are relatively unknown compared Chick, Herbie or Dave Brubeck. Steve Ash, Tardo Hammer, Larry Hamm, Sacha Perry, Kenny Ascher, Mike Kanan, Dan Nimmer, Pete Malinverni, Ehud Asherie, and George Colligan are all first rate jazz piano players. I know this because, unlike many so-called music critics, I am an expert on jazz music.

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  7. Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Ahmad Jamal, McCoy Tyner, Joe Alterman, Tord Gustavsen, Steve Kuhn, Dave Brubeck, Oscar Peterson, Kenny Werner just off the top of my head are better. And one would think an expert on jazz music would know that. Don't confuse a friendship with a level of talent that doesn't exist. In terms of bass players, Bruno is second tier. He is good but there are twenty players better - easy. As far as my opinion not meaning shit (real class) you are correct. There are no absolute musical truths but merely shades of gray. Peace out..

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    1. You can't name 20 bass players who are better than Burno. Who is Joe Alterman or Tord Gustavsen? There are some musical truths that go beyond shades of grey.

      Truth 1: Gene Ammons swung his ass off.

      Truth 2: Half the people on DB critics poll couldn't swing if they were hanging.

      Kenny Werner is better than the cats I mentioned? I don't think so.

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  8. Billy Childs again (as opposed to the other "anonymous" which isn't my posting, but which I agree with). This will be my last post because I don't want to spend any more time on this; I'm too busy actually creating music. But you're right, George is a friend. But that fact does not preclude his brilliance as a musician. This is not only my opinion, but the opinion of the entire jazz community, as I know it. As you yourself have admitted, there are no musical truths, merely shades of gray. Unfortunately, you precede that sentence with the very definitive statement, "He is good, but there are twenty players better - easy." At this level, what's "better" for you may not be "better" for me. There is a level of journalism which acknowleges that fact, and merely describes (intelligently and cogently) whether they feel the artist was successful or not. This music criticism is informative and worthy of respect, in my opinion. There is another kind, which is contentious and mean spirited and seeks to shock by being "blunt" and "calling it as they see it...". It's cheap and dismissive and attempts to trivialize music and musicians that they don't like, and deify the ones they do, as though no-one else is doing anything worthwhile. These "critics" are music fans with a megaphone, and often reduce someone's life work into a few snappy and sarcastic sentences. Which one are you, Mr. Black?

    I love all the artists you've named but I still say George Colligan is a major jazz pianist, and I think I know what I'm talking about. Also, having played with Dwayne BURNO (not Bruno), I know he's a consummate bass player, and I feel you have no basis for saying what you said about him. Just my opinion, but I think my opinion is more informed than yours, having played and recorded with him. Besides, there are all kinds of generational considerations and genre considerations if you want to break things up into "top-tier" and "bottom tier". There are artists haven't gotten the noteriety (for whatever reason) that they deserve. You didn't mention Art Tatum, Bud Powell, Jelly Roll Morton, Bill Evans, Erroll Garner, Nat Cole, Joe Zawinul. Is Herbie better than Jelly Roll Morton? Bill Evans "schools" Art Tatum? There are too many artists in jazz to say that a chosen few (chosen by you) are the best, and the others are behind. We ALL contribute and jazz would be doing a lot better if we all remembered that.

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  9. Billy - What part of taste is subjective gives you the most trouble? I can flip your lame argument to one of my credibility which you seemed to enjoy challenging. There are various acceptible standards of measuring artistic success. As I clearly stated before there are no absolute musical truths. There are leaders and there are fine session players. Dwayne is a session bassist. George has the talent to be a leader but seems to find himself in the session category. I'm sure he is a wonderful teacher. It is what it is my friend. Good luck creating your music. So George can be hypocritical and blunt and it is all good but when called out on it then suddenly you rush to his defense not fully comprehending the points either of us are trying to make? It is only human nature for your friendship with George to cloud your judgement. For the record, I singled George's playing out on my Josh Ginsburg review as being a "perfect fit" for the project. I don't reduce anyone's lifes work. While I don't appreciate Amanda Palmer's "art" - George trashed her beyond belief. If the girl can raise a million bucks on kickstarter then someone digs her (god knows why) so your argument comes back to bite you. Artists reduce their own work as is the case with Palmer. It is all about perspective. I specifically write and review for the "average" listener and focus a great deal of time on giving the more Independent artist a break. You are right. I've wasted some time here better spent on other projects. Again good luck with your music.

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  10. I know who George Colligan Is,,,,but who the hell is Brent Black and why do we care what he says? Bet he can't play piano like George! When this girl puts aside chick corea for days on end and exclusively listens to George, you better believe he can play. My top cd's include Chick, Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, Joe Zawinul, Kei Akagi, Lyle Mays, Herbie Hancock, Mike Prigodich, etc etc. I don't mess around when it comes to music. George rocks the piano.

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  11. Oh and not I'm not a personal friend of George's. Never had the pleasure of meeting the man.

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  12. I think this is appropriate here... (is Red Mitchell too "second rate"?)

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDJkIXR0RaY

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  13. Brent Black has managed to confirm how much of a tool he is with this latest stream of vitriol.

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  14. How is anyone taking Brent Black seriously? What a joke. He is clearly incapable of civilized interaction.

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  15. Wow . Looking you up would not even cross my mind ! George tries to be civil and gets dissed again . Bitter, table for one

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  16. poogie bell here hmmm? wow... who is brent black...

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  17. John Benitez 8 class bass player maybe worstSeptember 21, 2012 at 12:38 AM

    I need to say something even that I may be one of the worst bass players out there. The world need all of us the True Masters( like Chick ( wich I have played and toured)) Mulgrew Miller Kenny Kirkland Brad Meldhau Chucho Valdez Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Billy Childs etc and the younger pianist and piano players along Ron Carter Dave Holland , Buster Williams,Miroslav, Eddie Gomez, Chris Mcbride, Larry Grenadier, and Dwayne Burno,Steve la Spina ,Victor bailey, TomKennedy, John Pattituci, etc and the rest of us bass players along the other instruments TOGETHER TO PLAY MUSIC AND LOOK TO HELP THIS WORLD WITH ART AT ANY LEVEL PEOPLE ARE DYING DAILY WHEN YOU TRAVEL LIKE THE WAY WE ALL HAD AND YOU SEE GAMINES( LITTLE KIDS SNIFFING GLUE BECAUSE THEY ARE HUNGRY AND SELLING THEIR BODIES FOR MONEY ASK YOURSELF BROTHER AND SISTER IF IT REALLY MATTERS WHO PLAY BETTER ?? BUT IT DOES MATTER IF WE CAN PLANT A SEED OF LIFE WITH THE GIFT OF MUSIC IT CAN PRODUCE LIFE HEALTH AND MONEY TO HELP EVERYBODY BE BETTER JUST THINK THIS FOR A MOMENT PLEASE CHECK WHAT PEOPLE LIKE OLODUM ARE DOING IN BRAZIL AND LETS LOVE ONE AND OTHER IN HUMILITY AND PEACE!

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  18. John Benitez 8 class bass player maybe worstSeptember 21, 2012 at 12:46 AM

    I forgot Boris Kozlov,Essiet Essiet, Dave Santoro, Robert Hurst Carlos Henriquez ,etc etc etc By the way I a a friend of one of the most versatile pianist out there George and even that i had not meet MR Brian I will like to meet himand I know Music will help for him to a full recovery soon!

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  19. Is Brent Black just a professional troll at this point? He seems to hold deep grudges against anyone who called him out for his obviously biased comments re: Payton. My blog only draws about 50 views/month, but he went out of his way to berate me 6 months after I noted his slanted position. I guess I'm in good company if I join with Colligan and Childs, eh?

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  20. Wow...this is really weird to read. I mean, George is a fine pianist and a very literate and thoughtful writer. This critic is the worst example of his "profession"--a jazz writer with no humility who trashes and ranks players pointlessly and insensitively. One of the wonderful things about music is that it is a community and generally speaking, a community of players that support each other. I go to hear Herbie Hancock and I am amazed, but I've also heard amazing things from many players who aren't marquee names. George Colligan certainly needs no defense, but if he did, the sheer number of amazing musicians (Brian Hogans, Dwayne Burno, and a personal hero, Billy Childs) who have written in support of him, would give any moderately humble person pause. Music isn't about levels to me--it's about developing a personal statement and about self-betterment. Anyway, like many of you have said this is a waste of energy, ugly and pointless. It's especially galling that this most recent "critical" response comes when George was making a very generous response to the critic's infantile rant. To call what this critic does serious musical criticism is like calling the latest reality TV show serious theater.

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  21. George Colligan is a first-rate musician and, as this post comes to proof, a real gentleman.

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  22. In Mr. Black's recent blog he showed a woeful misunderstanding of the reality of publicists in the jazz business. On previous comments he shows he doesn't even know what a "session" musician is. (For God's sake, man, the term "session musician" has to do with commercial sessions - not one's status as a sideman/leader). He's probably one of these idiots who think that a "clubdate" has something to do with night clubs or gigs in clubs. All of these are common misconceptions by someone who is not a musician or has garnered any real understanding of the profession he so enthusiastically critiques. And this is where his whole notion of "subjective" criticism breaks down. Part of the jazz tradition is mastery. Mastery of your given instrument and mastery of the art-form. There are measurable criteria by which one enters the family of jazz musicians. I will set myself as the least among the musicians who have posted here and try to help Mr. Black understand. If George Colligan is "second rate" (a laughable notion) then I must be sixth or seventh rate and yet like Mr. Colligan I know the craft of playing jazz music - not as a hobby or a passing dalliance, but a profession. Only one who plays this music and understands and hears the music as a working jazz musician can understand how frustrating it is to have someone attack another working musician with such vitriol. The fact that Mr. Black has no standing in this conversation musically is not in itself the point. What is truly sad about his postings is that they are not the best writing on this thread! He lacks the eloquence, poise, humility, and humanity demonstrated by all the musicians (especially Mr. Colligan). He lacks an original perspective or even an adult one. The failure of his writing goes way beyond spelling.

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  23. Who is Brent Black and why do we care? He's vitriolic, hysterical and right-wing. Do we really need to pay attention to this kind of polluting, ugly garbage in jazz? Isn't it bad enough it has infected and infested American politics? What he thinks of any musician is irrelevant. Anybody can start a blog and start "reviewing" CDs. There is no evidence that he has any knowledge, credentials, experience. Clearly he has no love for this music.

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  24. It seems as though Mr Black is just trying to get attention for himself in a very childish way, I think we should ignore his insolent remarks and move towards the genuine criticism that used to be the mainstain of original classic jazz records/liner notes before the advent of itunes and all manner of mp3 downloads. To my ears George Colligan is definitely a class intstrumentalist and worthy of positive constructive criticism! We should honour those that teach jazz and continue to take it forward in this generation! What's with all this rating jazz musicians? Jazz is not a competition, it's rather a language that is passed down from the forefathers and continued to be passed down to others, which allows the music to continue to breath and live on! Many great jazz musicians have passed away or are near to this but it takes courageous people, like George Colligan to teach and pass on this music to prospective musicians, who will continue to keep this jazz light burning!

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  25. Wow, Mr. Black your writing defecencies go way beyond simple typos or spelling mistakes. It's the scattered nature of your thoughts that remind me of a ranting teenager. I know someone who you may be able to pick up some pointers from who is a far superior writer to you, you may have heard of him - his name is George Colligan?

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  26. GC, don't waste your time with this immature "critic"...

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  27. I BET YOU BRENT BLACK IS ONE OF US! Until we meet him lets just call him The Spook Who Sat By The Door!

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  28. Orrin....I thought we were cool..I am one of you. I am also honest and am entitled to my own opinion. Funny you come after me like a coward on cyber space when you have my personal email not to mention two outstanding reviews. Never bite the hand that feeds you my brother...

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    1. Brent is suggesting that because he gave someone a good review and the artist has his email address that he cannot disagree and call him out in public? Yoikes! Considering how public he's made his gripes with other people, this is about as disingenuous as it gets.

      Also, on the subject of George as a 'second rate' musician, I guess the fact that, in recent years, he has been on tour with both Don Byron and, this last summer, Jack DeJohnette has no resonance for him. We all know that DeJohnette has to hire second rate musicians, that he couldn't find top shelf guys to work with :)

      I'd recommend Black check out DeJohnette's download only Live at Yoshi'a 2010 to find out just how second rate George is.....:)

      Considering how often Black calls others cowards, it's interesting to see how he has, despite acknowledging George's apology here, used that to blog more shite at his own site. Also, if Black wants to call folks cowards and keep on using "pot meet kettle," how about the fact that, unlike George, he doesn't allow folks to comment on his blog. That sure sounds cowardly to me...

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  29. I love the number of cowards not willing to put their name on their posts thus - no credibility..."RIGHT WING" ? LMAO! those that scream for diveristy the most practise it the least....typical. I stand by my statements and agree with George on Amanda however he is a hypocrite based on his personal attack on me. It is what it is....

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  30. whats really funny is evans uses one of my review quotes in his video yet he wants to come after me here? wow....even obama isnt that stupid...talk about a hypocrite. i've pulled all my positive reviews of evans off my site, won't hurt him but unlike evans - i have standards....what a mistake i made trying to make things right with a racist piece of sh*t like evans....wow.

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  31. Orrin Evans - "like real men do?" you have my personal email so man up and use it....calling you out as well....if i am such an ass then why use my quote in your video? BUSTED my brother...you are a hypocrite and no need to worry - i'll never mention any recording your on and according to google analytics my audience is a quarter of a million so chew on that my brother.

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    1. Get your shit together. A quarter of a million hits ain't a quarter of a million readers...it just means that's the sum total of times pages that have been read at your site - one person can refresh their screen 250,000 times and get those exact numbers. You need to learn about Internet stats and understand what they MEAN, not just cite Google Analytics, as if saying something makes it true. He reminds me of a great scene in A Fish Called Wanda:

      Otto: [superior smile] Apes don't read philosophy.
      Wanda: Yes they do, Otto, they just don't understand it!

      Before you say you have a quarter million readers, try saying it the right way. You don't have a quarter million readers, you have a quartet million page hits, and there's a world of difference between the two. Get your shit together and stop spouting horseshit.

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  32. OH before I forget Orrin -
    a.) Burno is not a bassist to take seriously on the jazz scene. his last solo record was what again?
    b. payton is in my opinion a racist piece of garbage looking for any press at all to save a career that died years ago.
    c.) you? you are not man enough to email me and you have the address so basically - why would i want to moderate a panel of one has been, one that never was and one that is a gutless coward......peace out my brother. good luck to you and maybe one day someone wil knock that racist chip off your shoulder.

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  33. Why in the fuck is anyone giving this clown any more attention? It's funny how he makes it sound like hiring a publicist is a dirty secret, when as George mentioned, it's a necessity when launching a new release. But what's really hilarious is Brent calling anyone second rate. I wonder if he really doesn't realize that he's nothing but feeder material for publicists until they land a substantial hit like Ratliff, Chinen, DownBeat, JazzTimes etc. This is why in-house publicists don't give him the time of day, let alone record service.
    They simply don't need to, where an indie publicist has to keep a steady flow of
    reviews coming in to to keep the client happy. Jazz Critic? No. A guy with a blog who has found a way to get free music? Pretty much.

    "Ohh a CriticalJazz.com review..next stop a DownBeat cover."

    ReplyDelete
  34. naturally colligan doesnt have the balls to print my reply...again.
    i work with all the major labels, for an independent writer to have an audience of a quarter of a million is significant.
    you keep hiding behind anonymous. at least orrin evans has the guts to put his name to his bull shit. my review have appeared in all the major pubs so do your research first. and if colligan is so great....where is the solo record? NO WHERE....case closed.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Are you basing your audience of quarter of a million on the 250K+ page hits on your site? If so, those are not unique page views. You could sit there hitting refresh all day long to build those numbers. And no, Brent, you do not work with all the majors.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Uh. NO i base it on the google analytics i subscribe to and yes - i do work all the majors. I don't need every labels permission to review their work. I dont review Blue Note and Verve by choice as they gave up on real jazz years ago so swing and a miss you gutless wonder. Put your name and or label behind you post. You obviously don't understand goodle analytics or jazz for that matter. And....MAJOR labels are a dying breed. Labels such as HighNote and Posi-Tone and Sunnyside are just as important as Decca etc....I do work Concord but they choose to let Nicholas Payton go and those are Nicks word from a jazz times interview so do your homework.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hmm, Blue Note gave up on real jazz years ago? Let's look at some folks on their current roster: Joe Lovano. Don Byron. Robert Glasper. Ravi Coltrane. Lionel Loueke. Jason Moran. Hacks and second-rate players, all of them!

      And let's not forget that most un-jazz of all jazzers, Wayne Shorter, whose next record will be out on the label.

      Sure, the label has also released questionable other stuff, but that's economics, and as Black appears to have reminded folks at his site, time and time again, "it's called the music business for a reason." Ya can't have it both ways, Black; either a label does make some compromises to survive, or it doesn't, and fades to, um, black :)

      Delete
  37. And for the record if you actually follow me, mu site is far more Independent oriented including Europe so keep running your mouth without a name. The sign of a true coward. Do you work for All About Jizz?

    ReplyDelete
  38. Brent....to end this I'll do something that maybe I shouldn't. First of ALL I said was I would love to rap in person. AND then I called you the spook who sat by the door because to my knowledge NO ONE has ever seen or met you in the flesh. Forget email my brother...here is my personal phone number. When you are ready to talk in person (or in cell phone land) please use it. I'm done with cyber talk. 267 243 5869. I would leave my address but that may be too much...LOL. But please call whenever you want to rap but until then you don't exist to me and your words carry NO WEIGHT. Peace. By the way.... Posi-tone is bullshit and I'd be willing to discuss why in person or on the phone. AND....you're funny... "the hand that feeds you". Are you serious my brother!?!?! You don't and never have fed me. OK I'm done....you have my number.

    ReplyDelete
  39. what makes you think i travel or need to travel to do this? posi-tone is bull shit? they will love to hear that....i dont want to call you. you have my personal email. hit me up anytime you gutless racist piece of garbage. all critics feed you but you feed off your ego.

    ReplyDelete
  40. i just sent your comments to posi-tone - sunnyside and a few other labels....cut your nose off to spite your face big dawg....not a smart move. amazing an independent critic can get to you this bad. must be some truth in what i say huh?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Good thing I have my own label....
      Imani Records.....you want their informantion

      Delete
  41. oh and Orrin.....if i am such a bad guy why are my review quotes used in your video you hypocritical piece of human filth? BUSTED MY BROTHER!!!!!!!!!!!! You use any media for your own benefit and I just proved it...I's call Colligan and even go have coffe with him before lowering my standards to a gutter rat like you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Haha seriously? Its funny how immature you are, given how old you look in your picture.

      Delete
  42. Done here for good. Colligan's inner circle seems to be pandering to pseudo intellectual racists in an effor to land gigs....talk about a waste of time.....
    George - later. good luck. Orrin - go rot in hell you piece of filth. no one challenges my integrity.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I guess what Black means is that anyone who makes solid, reasoned points, answers posts without resorting to name-calling, actually responds to what was said and doesn't just spew insults, and delivers it all with proper grammar and spelling, is a "pseudo intellectual." Then I guess that makes me a "pseudo intellectual."

      And, smug about it :)

      Delete
    2. Whats more manly phone or email? Just curious

      Delete
  43. Actually, your site looks like it's from 1998 and hosted on GeoCities. I just love the rotating CD and cascading rainbow musical notes and clefs. All that it's missing is one of those throwback under construction gifs.

    http://www.textfiles.com/underconstruction/AtAthensAcropolis7163construction.gif


    And why would I sign my name when my anonymity clearly riles you up? Maybe I'm a bit of a sadist, but watching you on your way to a meltdown is kind of entertaining.

    So, you're saying that Blue Note and Verve still send you promo CDs for review, but on principal alone you opt not to review? Or is it they've stopped sending you material? Ravi Coltrane's latest release on Blue Note is very much real jazz. Or is he second tier too? In fact, George sat in with Ravi not too long ago for a blistering version of Giant Steps and just killed it.

    All About Jizz? Really? Professionalism at its finest. I'm sure artists are lining up to have you write their liner notes.

    Oh and it might be time to put away the Nick Payton voodoo doll. The man takes up
    way too much of that space between your ears and honestly, you don't seem to have much brains to spare.

    I will admit that you did get one thing right

    "Labels such as HighNote and Posi-Tone and Sunnyside are just as important as Decca etc."

    No argument there.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Look for my Ravi Coltrane review Jethro....I don't explain myself to people of your ilk. A total waste of time. I have written liner notes for numerous artists but in the spirit of professionalism all clients are confidential. So....looking for a melt down? sign it ...."i'm a douche bag troll with a man crush on george colligan" cause thats what it translates to. Idiot.....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Since when does not citing musicians you've written liner notes for represent either professionalism or respect of confidentiality? Heck, the liner notes are public knowledge in the CDs, and your name is attached, so there's nothing to hide. In fact, if you're the writer you say you are, artists would be happy to publicize that you wrote their liners.

      So cough up, Black: let's hear some examples of albums you've done liners for. I'd love to read them...

      Delete
  45. AND TO CATCH YOU ON ANOTHER MISTAKE...HOW WOULD YOU KNOW WHO SERVICES ME? Ravi was "o.k." but there are 20 other better tenor players out there so if you think he is great living off his daddy's name then you don't know shit about music. of course....you know that right? wink.

    ReplyDelete
  46. In the spirit of professionalism !! Ha Ha . Gutter rat , Piece of filth,rot in hell Douche bag. Yes very professional Brent .

    ReplyDelete
  47. This is truly amazing to me. Why would a jazz critic with a quarter million hits on his site berate jazz musicians in a public forum? Does B.B wish for his career to end? The people that B.B. is trashing are artists with integrity that garner respect from listeners, critics, and most importantly their peers. As a musician that understands the intelligence, soul, patience, artistry, etc. that goes into producing creative music, I question whether b.b. has an inkling of what it's like to sacrifice a stable life to do this. With all the frustrations artists have to deal with, (not trying to be overly romantic here) being personally attacked and insulted by someone who has chosen to make a living writing about artists' work (I presume this to be the case with b.b.) should not have to be one of them. From my not very significant point of view (though I am working rather hard to release a self produced album), I don't care who a critic has reviewed, or what publication their words have been printed in, or how eloquently written a review they can produce, because after reading the degrading words typed by b.b. on this blog, I would want no association with him whatsoever. I have read some recent reviews from b.b. that I'm sure his much respected subjects would appreciate; however if they read this thread I tend to think they would not want to be associated with b.b. either.
    The only hand biting going on here is b.b. biting his own every time he responds with a comment that alienates him from any artist that happens to come along and read his words. So self destructive.

    ReplyDelete
  48. yet you do not have the balls to put your name out there. gutless coward. i have plenty of artists coming to me on a daily basis. you dont give examples of anything. no arist gets a free pass like nichols payton or orrin evans...i call it like it is. colligan is not a solo artist and his doscography proves i am right. ah! you are working to produce a solo record. the kind of artist i actually promote so once again if you would read what i actually wrote you would see where i am coming from. i am carried on several sites in europe so swing and a miss. my traffic continues to go up. my arist contacts continue to go up yet YOU don't have the balls to put your name behind your attack. you are a gutless coward just like the racists nicholas payton and orrin evans....put your name behind your post princess. you coward. wish for my career to end? it is going stringer than ever and douchebags like you make it happen. so where is your name coward??? is it because you know your recording sucks and will never see the light of day? lmao!!!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. you really think I'm a douchebag? coward? based on what? nothing negative has to be said about you. You're doing it to yourself. Any artist that reads words like yours coming from a critic would agree. I don't know George, or Payton, or Orrin Evans. I happen to respect their music, but even if I didn't like them or their music, I would read what you said and react the same way. What's the point man? What do you get from slinging hate like that? Keeping your ego intact? You even managed to insult Payton and Evans in your angry response to an anonymous coward like me! why? My guess is that you wanted to be a saxophone player and play gigs and make records and all that, but when you saw what it took to do that, you opted out, wrote about what you wished you were doing, and have remained bitter ever since. The thing is - despite all the jealousy and b.s. that can happen between musicians, they will always have each other's back when it comes to being insulted by someone that can only talk a good game. This is why I've bothered to stay up to write this. This whole thing is really out of hand, and I wish I could take the high road and not care enough to respond. Part of me actually thinks you are a performance artist posing as b.b., because I cant wrap my head around why a professional would say things so absurd and hateful, and childish enough to cause me to laugh out loud. You're just fuckin with us right b.b.? If this is the case,and you are a performance artist, well played sir. You are truly talented in an Andy Kaufman sorta way. Well now I'm just having fun. Just felt compelled to add 2 cents. Thanks to George for allowing an open if not civil discussion on his site. I'm still so confused though, b.b. anything to add? nite sweetie.

      Delete
  49. Ha. So hilarious! Keep trashing yourself bro.

    ReplyDelete
  50. sorry i am trashing a gutless coward that is so scared to put his real name out there. you are trash just like orrin evans, nicholas payton and the rest.....put up or shut up a** hole.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. sorry. i'm an a**hole. what's your address? I'll mail you a copy of my record when it's completed. Would love to hear your thoughts on it.

      Delete
  51. keep your day job cause your solo record wont sell...your stupid ass will be on cd baby....i love it!

    ReplyDelete
  52. davis - you have no clue about ethics. my clients are just that - my clients. the point of this whole tread was calling out a second rate talent like george but you wanna flip it on me? try again sweetheart

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You still won't point us to even one CD where you've done the liners? Gee, that sounds about as much smoke and mirrors as your quarter of a million readers.

      Delete
  53. And Davis - YOU get YOUR shit together. google analytics has the reports to back me up and if you think i have nothing better to do then refersh by screen a quarter of a million times then go tongue kiss your boy firnd colligan or the piece of shit known as orrin evans....you dont have a fucking clue as to what you are talking about ass hole.

    ReplyDelete
  54. davis - i dont consider this a serious site. catch a typo good for you? ive been insulted on here the whole way so i am allowed my fair shots ass wipe. you must be butt buddies w/ george. does his wife know?

    ReplyDelete
  55. You know, the beautiful thing is that nobody has to say anything bad about you, because your posts say everything that needs to be said.

    Sure Google Analytics give you numbers. But just like that quote from A Fish Called Wanda, whose point you seemed to miss the first time around, so allow me to repeat it:

    Otto: [superior smile] Apes don't read philosophy.
    Wanda: Yes they do, Otto, they just don't understand it!

    Yes, Brent, you do read Google Analytics; you just don't understand it! There's a huge difference between a page hit and a unique visit, so let me try to explain it one more time, in simple terms.

    Let's suppose you had one faithful reader who came to your site once a day, every day, and read five reviews. That's five page hits each day. Multiply that by 365 and that's 1,825 page hits a year - but still only one reader. If we take your over-cited 250,000 hits - and assume they happened in just one year, though we otherwise since your site's been around for longer - and divide it by those 1,825 hits, that actually means you would have, and this assumes every one of your readers came to your site every day and read the same number of reviews, a far less impressive 134 readers. Quite a difference from a quarter of a million readers! Obviously that would be understating it but I hope you get the point.

    So, I repeat: stop spouting misinformation and get your shit together when it comes to citing traffic for your blog. Every time you say you have a quartet of a million readers, your nose is getting just a little bit longer....

    And one more thing: since you can't call me a coward, since I'm using my name, how about answering this: Why don't you allow people to comment on your blog, as George does here?

    Is it, perhaps, because you can dish it out but you can't take it?

    ReplyDelete
  56. i can take it fine douche bag....yeah i got trashed my human filth like orrin evans whose label is just about to let his sorry ass go. i dont spout misinformation as you have not proven me wrong once. you want to deflect attention from the hypocritical colligan piece.....why dont i let people comment? why doesnt nicholas payton allow comments chew on that bitch. you dont need to explain shit to me. you need to focus on the topic which was colligan's hypocritical piece. i am serviced well by labels, i have great independent talent sending me release so fuck you. what have you done boy? lmao! and where is orrin evans? another gutless wonder. your the one that doesnt understand the advance anaytics you can subscribe too ass munch. you have cyber balls....in person it would be a different story boy.

    ReplyDelete
  57. Wow, I was alerted to how out of hand this has gotten by Billy Childs, after I interviewed him this morning(will be forthcoming on jazztruth). Anyway, I'm hoping that this will fizzle out and we can get back to the music. Hey, Brent, BTW, just to set the record straight, I've recorded I think 22 CDs as a leader. 2 of them are solo piano. I wasn't sure what you meant by "solo". Anyway, I'm pretty sure it's around 22. The first one was in 1995 for Steeplechase: I've done maybe about 10 for that label, I did 2 for Criss Cross, three for Fresh Sound New Talent, One for Sirocco, and a handful of self and sort of self released CDs. I have 2 in the can for Steeplechase, and a bunch more things in the works. I have the urge to offer to send you some of my music; not to review, just for your own listening pleasure, or maybe to help you more clearly decide whether I'm second rate or not (ha ha?). However, I think I'll pass at this particular juncture.Many of them are on itunes. If you type in my name, they should come up. For some weird reason(ha ha?) I think you probably wouldn't like it! But hey, most people don't like jazz, so the idea of somebody not liking my music is not really a new idea.

    But you know, you aren't the first "critic" to suggest that I should not attempt being a bandleader, that I was really more of a sideman. I was even told by a promoter once, after I played three shows at a festival-one with Benny Golson, one with Al Foster, and one as a leader-that I "was one of the best sidemen out there, but it's just not the same when you are a band leader". Something to that effect. He had bought me a drink, so I was civil. I actually wanted to throw the drink in his face!
    I've been struggling to be a bandleader for years, facing numerous disappointments and frustrations. I've submitted material to promoters and booking agents and club owners over and over only to be ignored. ( I realize I'm not the only. I'm always amazed to talk to name cats and have them tell me how hard it is out here to get gigs.)
    Be that as it may, there is something -call it ignorance, being stubborn, or just a desire to express myself and have my music be heard-that has kept me going. I realize that it's too late for me to be an overnight superstar. But if I can get one gig at the Earshot Jazz Festival every 5 years, hey, that's something to celebrate! I'm in it for the long haul. I think most of us are.
    In this way, I want to be an inspiration to my students. Most of my students may never get the opportunities I have, but if they are really serious about music, I want them to observe what their life might be like when they are my age(42). Maybe they will be teaching, and playing when they can. Maybe they will become name players, or get to do a lot of sideman work. Few get rich in music, and lots of folks can't even make a living. But if you can have some kind of life in music, and get satisfaction from making your own music or getting to collaborate with others, that might be more valuable than driving a Lamborghini or belong to the country club.
    I'll never be rich in terms of money, but I have the joy and satisfaction of a life in music, in the past and present. Plus, I have a really wonderful family-a loving, talented wife and a son who is an endless source of delight. And I am extremely lucky to have a teaching job and in Portland, Oregon, no less.

    Brent, I really hope you can find some peace in your life. Hate is really toxic. I have myself held grudges for years. Letting go of them is something amazing. Here's a quote from , who was that guy.....he was President after Buchanan....oh yeah, Abe Lincoln:

    "Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?"
    Offer still stands-if you are ever in Portland, coffee is on me. Maybe even a bagel.
    GC

    ReplyDelete
  58. I think it's really Charlie Sheen writing this stuff

    ReplyDelete
  59. george - my final word and i wont be back EVER.
    i have plenty of peace in my life. but i do hate self righteous hypocrites that are nothing but good sidemen such as yourself. your writing clearly indicates you want more but like i said some are leaders, some are session guys. you are of limited talent and a session guy. 22 records of bad material on shitty labels with other half-assed musicians does not a career make.
    take your offer, shove it up your ass and deal with it. if i go to the great north west i will be meeting or seeing real musicians with real careers not glorified professors wishing for what might have been and pretending to be more then they arent. you, john kelman and mike ricci can line up and collectivly kiss my ass.
    billy childs? another wanna be loser. you crossed a line on the palmer piece and you even admit it but you set back and let a handful of your servants do your dirty work. nice......your boy orrin evans is now in trouble with his label and they probably wont resign him, why? ME! you are orrin can chew on that and go fuck yourself. you dont attack me, my credibility etc and not expect a response. go cry to john kelman arguably the biggest piece of shit editor on the planet. later man. i would say good luck but i dont give a shit what happens to a douche like you.

    ReplyDelete
  60. This probably isn't news to anyone, but Mr. Black needs to consult a mental health professional. I know it's difficult, but the best thing to do for us and him is avoid future interaction, at least until such a time that healthy relationships are possible. I say this to encourage compassion and acceptance for everyone. You never know what it's like to walk in someone else's shoes. Peace...

    ReplyDelete
  61. ancient chinese parable: a man died and went to heaven; there , he found 2 houses. He entered the first. Inside he saw a table full of food, but everyone was starving. Everyone was holding chopsticks 6 feet long and in misery. The man went into the second house, inside , he saw an empty table and everyone was fat , happy and dancing in joy. All the 6 foot long chopsticks were on the table. He went outside, perplexed. Then it dawned on him, in the first house, the people only thought to try to feed themselves and starved; In the second, they used the chopsticks to feed the person sitting across from them.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Brent Black is clearly an asshole. It would be one thing if he offered his opinion of George in a more respectful manner. But since he's name calling and communicating in an angry and vulgar spirit, his opinion has absolutely no credibility.

    I don't know George personally, but I've heard his music and am a big time fan. And even though politically I'm more of a libertarian, which would put me at odds with some of the opinions espoused by Mr. Colligan, I very much enjoy reading his well written blog.

    ReplyDelete
  63. In regards to Mr. Black, I think that the "All-Purpose New Yorker Cartoon Caption" fits handily, "Christ! What an asshole!"

    ReplyDelete
  64. Jeez, the more you argue the more you feed the beast. Just ignore the guy and he'll fade away. The jazz community is one of the most supportive artistic communities around, so it's great that we all want to defend George. But this is unproductive and it just gives Mr. Black validation. It's a blog, there are millions of them and anyone can spout whatever they want. I see this happening more and more with the jazz blogs. Circular arguments that go 'round and 'round doing no good. It's treading water and it doesn't serve anybody.

    Don't we all have better things to do?

    ReplyDelete
  65. Yes. Brent is very sick, mentally, and I think physically as well. I thought maybe we could bury the hatchet, so to speak. It's clearly not going to happen. He sounds like he's pretty miserable. But who knows? Anyway, I have a cool interview of Don Byron coming up in a minute.

    ReplyDelete
  66. That's what I'm talkin 'bout... (smile)....

    ReplyDelete
  67. Thank you all for making jazz look like an exclusive club of elitist musicians that argue over the most ridiculous things. It's really disappointing and this kind of crap is discouraging to new listeners, young performers, and the genre itself which should represent cool, inclusive, laid back, people.

    ReplyDelete
  68. This last anonymous post is of course from Blent Brack himself, as I'm sure a look to its IP address would confirm.

    ReplyDelete
  69. George Colligan you are a gentleman. From the liner notes of Pat Martino's "We'll Be Together Again" album all those years ago:
    "true music, like all true art,
    is an experience to be shared, not judged,
    for praise cannot make it better,
    as blame cannot make it worse.
    its creation swells and ebbs;
    it evolves and yet is always the same.
    it envelopes all that it touches,
    and it caresses the minds of its listeners
    as it does the minds of the performers. "

    This is not boxing - we don't have a champion and 10 ranked contenders. We DO have beautiful people making beautiful music for those open to receive it. Who knows, if I keep working on my craft I can rise into obscurity ;)
    David (O'Rourke)

    ReplyDelete
  70. George Colligan? Dwayne Burno? Both consummate musicians. I personally don't know anyone who would question that. Got a communique from Brent Black the other day saying he would be finishing an interview he had done with me. Don't hurry on my account, Brent. I, for one, won't be reading it.

    Hoping everyone's cool out there. -JL

    ReplyDelete
  71. no problem joe. good luck to you. consider the interview dead and burried.
    and george you call me "mentally sick"? simply because i called you out on a point you tried to label me? never mind colligan is guilty of the same thing he accused me of....when someone challenges my integrity or credibility i certainly get upset and challenge it. not to worry joe, if you find me that offensive i'll take you stuff off my site. glad to be of service. joe - get your facts straight and your stuff together before attacking me buddy.

    ReplyDelete
  72. in fact all motema artists are being pulled from my site thanks to you.....jana sends her best. should have kept your nose out pal....now you have hurt a whole bunch of her people that actually like me. your days at the label are numbered. i understand from carey you were a litle upset over getting screwed by downbeat...now you got screwed by the little guy too. god you are as sharp as a tack buddy.

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  73. LOL!

    Now this guy thinks he has the clout to get someone like Joe Locke kicked off a label?

    Thanks for the entertainment during a very chaotic week, B3.

    I'm sure Cary (not Carey) will love the fact that you are discussing your conversations here.

    ReplyDelete
  74. i dont care...i told them i would not be reviewing any of their talent any more so fuck you....there is a posi-tone artist that if he hasnt been kicked off yet he soon will be....."horse's mouth" as it were. you can play the other end. no i never said i would get locke kicked off the label so learn to read. i said they would not be/ are not pleased. thats all. but i did pull and am pulling all my motema stuff off their site and we "had" a great relationship so learn how to read boy then maybe you can learn how to sign your name.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh really? Then what, exactly, does "your days at the label are numbered" mean, if not that, through letting the label know you are pulling all their reviews, you are trying to pressure them into taking action against Joe? Do you really think your puny little blog has that much clout? Do you really think you matter that much?

      Ya know, Brent, I think I may be changing my initial diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. I think narcissism may be more like it. You do seem to think you can email record labels and, with one fell swoop of your powerful (albeit grammatically incorrect and misspelling) pen, you can get artists into trouble. You sure do have a high opinion of yourself.

      "now you have hurt a whole bunch of her people that actually like me..." Brent? You're a blogger. Not a critic; a blogger. And those people don't *like* you, they just like getting good press from you. Now that you've decided to pull and, I guess, stop all future Motema coverage, let's see how long those folks stick by your side. As you are so quick to say in some of your own reviews, "it's called the music business for a reason."

      Delete
  75. since our relationship is over and i signed to confidentiality agreement i can say damn near anything i want. mr. a

    ReplyDelete
  76. orrin evans posted on here his label was "bullshit" - now even a retarded piece of crap like you can figure out that didnt go over well......i sent it straight to positone and several other labels even a publicist who said and i quote "oh god no...i'd never work with nicholas payton first blood part two." so chew on that...

    ReplyDelete
  77. Nick's still in your head. do you wake up at night, in a cold sweat, screaming "BITCHES!!..BITCHES!!...BITCHES!!"

    Name the publicist who said that or I call bullshit.


    I'm trying to give you the biggest shovel I can find.

    ReplyDelete

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