Jazz, though far from an outdated art form, has aged long past its first Renaissance. Many of the greats from the old days slowly trod the path of the dinosaur leaving the world with the legacy of swing, bebop, and what we now have come to know as the true American art form. In 2011 alone, 30 renowned jazz musicians passed away (I know, they list 32, but…Nate Dogg and Amy Winehouse? No disrespect intended, but  calling them jazz musicians seems like a stretch to me. Do your research, NPR). Getting an opportunity to see a true jazz legend, sadly, grows more and more difficult with each passing year.

So when Claire presented me with two tickets to see Herbie Hancock and his band as my Christmas present, she fully understood my shrieks of excitement in the crowded restaurant where we exchanged gifts. I dubbed that day in March Herbie Day and took the day off. [Read more…]