Both of these films feature dynamic performances from dynamic musicians. In Art Blakey--The Jazz Messenger, the focus is on Blakey's lifelong commitment to spreading the gospel of jazz--and, in the process, launching many artists on solo careers. Much of the film is devoted to a music seminar which Blakey conducted in Britain. The Jazz Warriors, a group of young black jazz musicians, may look a little strange: a skinhead here, a ponytail there, some heavy makeup and earrings, etc. But no amount of mascara changes the fact these boys can play some jazz; and Blakey, who nearly always wears an open-mouthed smile magically beats those skins and has a ball. Playing drums and exhorting jazz have been the mainstays of Blakey's life for forty years, and as he explains to an incoming crop of Jazz Messengers (Blakey's revolving band), he "has to play." In addition to the joy of watching and listening to Art Blakey practice and perform, the film also includes interviews with Dizzy Gillespie, Walter Davis Jr., and Wayne Shorter on the influence that this legend of jazz has had on aspiring musicians. The second film, A Brother With Perfect Timing, is an autobiographical collage of the life of Abdullah Ibrahim (Dollar Brand). Ibrahim, an energetic and entertaining speaker, talks about his early life in South Africa, and how he had to fight to get piano lessons ("pianos were for girls.") Building on traditional African melodies and rhythms, including the samba (which Ibrahim notes is mistakenly ascribed to South America), Ibrahim has put forth a considerable body of work. Shown with his band, Ekaya, Ibrahim performs some memorable melodic jazz pieces, including the haunting "Manenberg", and the Oriental-influenced "Water From an Ancient Well". A literate, delightful, and multi-talented man, Ibrahim is a pleasant companion to spend a couple of hours with. Both films are highly recommended. (Available from: Independent Media, 3921 France Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55416.)
Art Blakey. The Jazz Messenger; A Brother With Perfect Timing
(1987) 78m. $39.95. Rhapsody Films. Public performance rights included. Vol. 3, Issue 10
Art Blakey. The Jazz Messenger; A Brother With Perfect Timing
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