Cal Tjader - 2nd Edition by S Duncan Reid (Paperback)

About the Book

"'Within one of the most complex musical categories yet to surface, Cal Tjader quietly pioneered the genre as a jazz vibraphonist, composer, arranger and bandleader from the 1950s through the 1980s. Reid tells the life story of a humble musician, written in a familiar, conversational tone that reveals Tjader's complex charisma. Tjader left behind a legacy and a labyrinth of influence, attested by his large audience and innovation that would change the course of jazz. Expanded and revised, this intimate biography now includes additional interviews and anecdotes from Tjader's family, bandmates, and community, print research, and rare photographs, presenting a full history of an undervalued musician, as well as a detailed account of the progression of Latin Jazz.'-Provided by publisher"--

Book Synopsis

Within one of the most complex musical categories yet to surface, Cal Tjader quietly pioneered the genre as a jazz vibraphonist, composer, arranger and bandleader from the 1950s through the 1980s. Reid tells the life story of a humble musician, written in a familiar, conversational tone that reveals Tjader's complex charisma. Tjader left behind a legacy and a labyrinth of influence, attested by his large audience and innovation that would change the course of jazz. Expanded and revised, this intimate biography now includes additional interviews and anecdotes from Tjader's family, bandmates, and community, print research, and rare photographs, presenting a full history of an undervalued musician, as well as a detailed account of the progression of Latin Jazz.

Review Quotes

Reviews of the first edition: "provided plenty of information, some quite provocative, and, in doing so, has filled a gap in documenting a musician who achieved one of history's most compelling fusions of jazz and Latin music...strongly recommended"-ARSC Journal

"a meticulously researched and detailed account...fills a gap in the history of Latin jazz and leaves a soulful legacy of 'good vibes' about a jazz great"-newbooksinjazz.com.

"Reid is a talented storyteller who has seemingly left no stone unturned in his research. It is the kind of volume that will encourage readers to seek and hear his recordings... a very fast-paced and an easy read... essential." -The New York City Jazz Record

"Throughout the biography, S. Duncan Reid deals with his subject quite honestly... treating Tjader as a flawed but warm-hearted human being who made a major contribution to music. One learns a great deal from reading this work and is entertaining along the way, leading one to go back and explore Cal Tjader's recordings. Go out of your way to get this book!"-Los Angeles Jazz Scene

About the Author

S. Duncan Reid was a music critic for the Thirteenth Moon (1994-1996) and has written for Wax Poetics and Jazz Podium (Germany). He lives in California.