Kevin Whitehead

Self-professed Ellington fanatic Kevin Whitehead reviews Recollections of the Big Band Era and Piano Duets, both of which, he says, reveal why the composer and pianist was so admired by later jazz innovators like Cecil Taylor.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead reviews neo-bop drummer Ralph Peterson's first album as a bandleader. Whitehead praises Peterson's dynamic and energetic approach, particularly in how he backs soloists -- all of whom shine.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead says that tenor saxophonist Benny Carter, now 81, has preferred to work behind the scenes, often allowing his collaborators to take the spotlight on his recordings. But Carter's newest album, My Kind of Trouble, puts him front and center where he belongs.