Today's playlist. For our 40th installment, we have "Widespread Depression Orchestra." It's a jazz group whose name literally translates to "Contagious Depression."The contrast between this group's name and their uplifting melodies is quite appealing.
I bought it at Flash Disc Ranch, my favorite record store in Shimokitazawa.
This is a record store I've been going to ever since I first moved to Setagaya. It's popular because of its amazing point card system, which is valid as long as the store is open. Once you collect 50 stamps, you can buy any number of records under 15,000 yen for half price.
Widespread Jazz Orchestra: A Big Band Journey Across Time and Genre
The Widespread Depression Orchestra is a nine-member jazz ensemble that was formed in 1972 at the University of Marlborough in Vermont.&Starting out as a group playing B and early rock and roll, in the mid-70s they became a leading force in the big band revival, inheriting the styles of masters such as Jimmy Lunsford, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Lionel Hampton.
In 1978, under the leadership of John Holzmann, they moved to New York. They recorded numerous full albums and made a name for themselves. In the 1980s, the five members also became active as independent bebop groups.
Holzmann, nicknamed the "Bronx Nightingale," formed her own band around 1982 and released her solo album "Let's Do It." John Hammond Sr. praised it highly and even contributed liner notes.
Following him, alto saxophonist Michael Hashim took over as leader. Incorporating swing and bebop, and adding original arrangements by the members, their repertoire expanded even further. Renamed "Widespread Jazz Orchestra" by manager Michael Caplin, they performed at world-renowned jazz clubs and music festivals in places like North Sea, Polly, Antibes, New Orleans, Montreal, Montreux, and Taormina.
In 1985, they released the album "Paris Blues," produced by George Butler, on Columbia Records. Their music, which continues to evolve across time and genres, still captivates many fans today.
WAITER-U offers not only camping gear, but also a curated selection of music, books, and movies.
I've also created a playlist on Spotify, so please feel free to listen to it in the car on your way to a camping trip.
