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Great Jazz Pianist Rodney Kendricks and Bernard Linnette @ Studio 281
Bernard Linnette's Interactive with Rodney Kendricks

"Unsung Messenger of Jazz" by Robert J. Carmack

Whenever one hears the phrase"unsung", in front of a word, it's probably, Hero.Putting this writer's blather into perspective I rather substitute "Jazz Artist" instead of hero. But, you get my drift. When it comes to jazz, that moniker is misused. When it comes to jazz in Atlanta, Georgia, it fits bandleader/drummer, Bernard Linnette. Well schooled in the rudiments of jazz, and road hardened with such luminaries as Dakota Staton,Freddie Cole, Jimmy Heath and Cedar Walton , just to name a few. Bernard is one of the few Atlanta based musicians to always manage to stay working, This goes right to the heart of where his heart really is; the passion in which he plays and operates his band members. You might even see Audrey Shakir playing piano (taught by the great Barry Harris) or, saxophonists Don Braden and Patience Higgins (Harlem Jazz master) or, the great Andy McCloud (premier bassist) you just never know how the feeling comes. One thing for sure it'll definitely swing hard!

Let's start with the music, that's the essence of it all. I guess if I had to hang a tag on him and his style, it would be in the spirit of Blakey and Monk. If fact, he's often been "tagged" "Man! You remind me of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers!" Not a bad group to pattern yourself after. Big sound, swinging Hard Bop music. Simply put, "pure essence." No one can accuse Bernard of not having guts to appear with young, unseasoned players. But, because of his leadership and unrelenting drive, some of the younger players in Atlanta have benefited greatly from playing gigs with Linnette. "A drummer has to be more than a time keeper, said the soft spoken veteran. They sometimes have to be Uncle, paymaster, bartender and, have an open mind, with a sense of humor." It comes as no surprise to this writer; Bernard Linnette has not even been recognized in his own home city, Atlanta. In the spirit of Bird, Diz, Monk and Blakey, he's doing his part to keep the legacy alive and free!

Perhaps, it may be caused by a lack of participation by the residents in Atlanta, who are not always "hip" to great straight- ahead jazz music. Since so few real jazz artist come to Atlanta because their music isn't played on the radio there. Maybe, sometimes when they happen to come in on a package deal for The Atlanta Jazz Festival in May. (but, that's another story) There are good people in Atlanta, who like their coffee strong, without sugar and milk. If you are one of those persons who like the Jazz Messengers, Horace Silver, Harold Land, Wayne Shorter, McCoy Tyner, Freddie Hubbard, etc. Get off the couch watching reality TV shows and eating cheese– doodles on Thursday night. Come out to the Club 281 in Castleberry! I would, if I was there. Nonetheless, you are there, follow these easy instructions. Get in auto, drive to 281 Peters Street 9:30pm, Thursday night - NO COVER! Call up a few friends and make a night of it, while Verve Pianist & recording artist, Rodney Kendricks joins Bernard Linnette's Interactive at the Club 281. For more information contact 404-524- 7247