Jimmy Harrison on Jazz Profiles

Sunday, November 19, 2017 - 2:00pm to 7:00pm

Tune into WKCR this Sunday, November 19th, for Jazz Profiles from 2-7pm ET as host Matthew “Fat Cat” Rivera plays the complete Jimmy Harrison. The show will cover in chronological order all of the records on which Harrison solos, including rare alternate takes. You will hear each record in its entirety followed by an excerpt of Harrison’s solo. “Fat Cat” and Harrison share a hometown of the “drop city,” Louisville, Kentucky—FC will provide commentary, context and biographical information on Harrison throughout the program.

The short-lived trombonist Jimmy Harrison left his mark on Jazz history while in Fletcher Henderson’s great big band between 1927 and 1931 as well as in Charlie Johnson’s Paradise Orchestra in 1928. Though he might be easy to miss amongst the shadows of the titans of his era such as Armstrong, Bix, Tram, Bechet, Noone, or Hines, his work is as exciting today as it was influential in his own day. His sound on Trombone is bold and his rhythmic command is more than impressive. Harrison’s ability to fill up a small amount of space (you will only find a few solos longer than 16 bars!) with an exciting and complete statement is a testament to his brilliant phrasing and musical spirit. Although Harrison died of a stomach ailment on July 23, 1931 at the age of 30, through the many recordings of his brief career we can appreciate his music and his contributions to Jazz.

Jimmy Harrison lives! WKCR-FM 89.9FM and wkcr.org.