Sorry to say we will be away when you play Grand Rapids (I'd love to see you at Founders) but we might be able to catch you in Chicago.
Any member with a chance should see/hear this band.
Met Music was a great record shop on the South Side. That's the address on the label. Paul Serrano was producing stuff in his studio and placing it with labels at the time. More later. I'm in Chicago for Eddie Johnson's funeral and may see Paul tomorrow.
Ran is "something else", thank god.
I had the same experience with him and James P Johnson a number of years back.
I like Ran (and his playing) a bunch.
Listening to the session tapes of Eddie Johnson sessions I was struck by John's playing again. What a slick player, in the best sense.
I miss both of them.
Too many dead people on my label.
According to AMG he was born in 1921, so he was either 88 or 89.
Chuck,
Any chance the LP will be reissued on CD?
I was planning a late fall issue but it feels a little creepy now. I will see how I feel about it later.
Just received an email announcing he died this morning. Funeral arrangements pending, but probably next Tuesday. More info as it becomes available.
He was a fine musician and fine human.