Talking Jazz with Ben Sidran

Episode 8: Michael Brecker

Here’s the story: back in the mid-80’s on National Public Radio (NPR) in America, a show ran called Sidran On Record. Presented by Ben Sidran, a musician, author, lecturer and journalist, the show featured interviews with the great and the good from the world of Jazz. Miles, Dizzy, Herbie and Grover were amongst 60 interviews that ran over the course of 5 years. Many of the legends featured are sadly no longer with us, but the recordings are, and several years back Ben released these as part of a wonderful, 24 CD box set called Talking Jazz – bringing to life a golden period of entertainment and understanding as we learn about the masters, their thoughts and their works. Whilst this may seem like an advert for this prestigious box set, it isn’t really. Promise. We’ve been in touch with Ben and asked for his permission to use these interviews and create our own shows based on his works. Ben gave it two thumbs up and we’re delighted to present to you Talking Jazz with Ben Sidran – our most ambitious project to date.

Episode Eight is produced by Scott Fugate and this time it’s over to the Jazz Evangelist to explain in a little more detail his feelings towards the show:

“It is a honor & privilege to be able to remix & reproduce this classic interview with one of my all-time favorite musicians, Michael Brecker. It was a surprisingly emotional and spiritual process for me as I sought just the right music to illustrate his words, capture his brilliance, showcase his unique way of hearing & creating melodies, the way he blended harmonies, the beauty & soul of his style which often takes my breath away, and his humility & gentle spirit which he lived and made audible through his horn. Upon completing & listening to this episode, I was rather surprised to find myself crying at the end. This is my homage to Michael, who left us far too soon – but whose music will continue to live and influence generations to come. R.I.P. I love you brother.”

J. Scott Fugate, “The Jazz Evangelist”.

If you fancy buying the essential box set, which includes the full sixty interviews, then here’s where you need to go.

Enjoy!