Naamloos

Sonny Rollins, one of the most influential Jazz musicians of our time, died this afternoon. He was 95

Sonny Rollins, the tenor saxophonist and restless genius whose bold, distinctive tone and constant experimentation kept him on the cutting edge of jazz for more than 50 years, has died at age 95.

Spokeswoman Terri Hinte told The Associated Press that Rollins died at his home in Woodstock, New York. 

She cited no specific cause of death, but said he had been largely housebound over the past couple of years because of various physical problems.

Be in eternal peace.

Song Review: Traffic - “John Barleycorn (Must Die)” (Live, 1970)

It begins with Steve Winwood strumming an acoustic guitar and singing. Soon enough, Chris Wood is adding flute - notes here and here to color Winwood’s theretofore solo delivery.

Later, Jim Capaldi sidles up to Winwood, sings in harmony with his Traffic bandmate and proves that in the right hands, the tambourine is an actual instrument - a real part of a song like “John Barleycorn (Must Die).”

Captured on video in 1970 and just released, this specimen shows its age with its washed-out images while also showing Traffic’s music to be ageless. The audience is transfixed, so silent, the viewer/listener is left to wonder if fans are even there until the music stops and they make their appreciation known.

The music is mesmerizing. The fact audiences used to get mesmerized and shut the hell up during performances is beautiful. Let’s get back to that.

Grade card: Traffic - “John Barleycorn (Must Die)” (Live, 1970) - A (band) / A+ (audience)