Jazz for aficionados

@alexatpos 

I'd say both Guides have their strengths and weaknesses.Without question, the All Music is more complete. 

Thanks for explaining the Frogman rule. 

If we only listened to the best of the best we'd grow bored, eventually, no? 

I like clarity, especially when my comments are being (mis)represented. So, to be clear:

The term “The Frogman’s rule” was coined by Rok2id in response (in part) to an ongoing “debate” here about the possible reasons that some musicians are not as well known as others. I would not be so self centered as to make a “rule” for anyone else but myself. As further background, there was a suggestion made AT THE TIME that it was usually some sort of injustice at play. The “starving genius artist” myth. I disagreed and wrote that the reason was OFTEN (not always) that the artistry of the musician in question was usually not on the level of better known artists and that when one considers the reality of the music business (and it is precisely that), that lesser artists will not receive as much attention via bookings, recordings contracts and record sales. I stand by that assertion. However, and I said it then, there have been examples of artists deserving of wider recognition who did not receive that recognition for a variety of reasons, usually personal: drug use, difficult to work with, etc.

Alex has often posted obscure artists and, FOR ME, several (not all, and I said it at the time) simply weren’t on a level that interested me when one considers the vast number of recordings available by truly great players. Personally, I can’t imagine ever being “bored” with the existing supply of great recordings by great players. And I’m not talking about the greatest of the great either. Not every really good tenor player, for instance, is on the level of a Coltrane, or Rollins, but still rewarding to listen to….obviously. However, there are many levels below that and it gets to the point when one (I) says “what’s the point?”. Just to have something different? Even if it’s mediocre? Worse yet, NOT different, but totally derivative. No thanks .

Lastly, as time marched on many of the supposedly “obscure” players posted weren’t that obscure at all. For instance, look at recent posts. Howard McGhee and Eddie Harris, obscure?! I don’t think so.

Anyway, this subject would arise in discussion one way or another over the years and the term “Frogman’s rule” stuck, somehow. I’ve never used it myself. I hope this clarifies things somewhat and Happy Holidays to all.

Actually, it’s "The Frogman’s First Law"

His second law is "Rok2id is the most knowledgeable Jazz aficianado in the whole world." For some reason, it is not quoted as often as his first law. Could that be because the first law is in effect? Makes a body wonder.

Cheers

That’s right, “The Frogman’s First Law”.  As far as (my?) Second Law” goes, well……..😊

@rok2id @frogman

And what is the third law? Does it start with Thou shalt not??

😆😆😆