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Who Are The Stars Today?

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Courtesy Paul Green

By Joseph Vella
December 1, 2022
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The other day a friend asked me the all-important question: Who are the new "stars" in jazz today? Some names that came to mind were

James Francies

keyboards

" data-original-title="" title="">James Francies,

Oded Tzur

saxophone, tenor

" data-original-title="" title="">Oded Tzur, and

" data-original-title="" title="">Julian Lage but would I call them "stars" of the music? Technically proficient artists? Yes. Stars? Not sure.

Today, there is no shortage of gifted artists of all ilks but does anyone stand apart like Buddy, Freddie, Nina, Herbie, Grover or Eliane? And what about influential bands like

Weather Report

band / ensemble / orchestra

" data-original-title="" title="">Weather Report,

Steps Ahead

band / ensemble / orchestra
b.1979

" data-original-title="" title="">Steps Ahead and

Pat Metheny Group

band / ensemble / orchestra
b.1977

" data-original-title="" title="">Pat Metheny Group?

You hear one note and you know who they are. Their music is felt not heard. It's not about style or flash but these artists have a commanding authenticity, a rich musical depth and ability to shred as well as entertain.

Who do you think are the "stars" of the music today?

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