Did the greats take Jazz with them when they passed on? Chances are that if you're reading a review for a film like "Icons Among Us: Jazz in the Present Tense," you probably already know the answer to this question. While Jazz is far from popular these days, it is quietly flourishing. The torch blazes brightly thanks to musicians that pay homage to the music's roots, yet interpret the genre to fit the current zeitgeist. As would be expected, the film introduces the debate over what's Jazz and what's not. In contrast to the conservative depiction Ken Burns offers in "Jazz," this team of directors offer a broader vision of the music. Perhaps most notably, the Jambands get their day. A thriving sub-genre of Psychedelic Rock infused Jazz has been brewing in this country for at least a decade. Of this movement, interviews are given to Marco Benevento, John Medeski and Skerik. In addition to a stirring Medeski, Scofield, Martin & Wood performance, the Benevento/Russo Duo is seen at the High Sierra Music Festival. "Icons Among Us" covers additional musicians that combine Rock with Jazz. Bill Frisell and Will Bernard are both interviewed and shown performing. Including musicians like Roy Hargrove, Brian Blade and Matthew Shipp, much of the film focuses on what most listeners would consider contemporary Jazz. Beyond this, a large segment is given to the ultimate resurrection of the old guard, Wynton Marsalis' Jazz at Lincoln Center. With daKAH, time is even given to the Hip-Hop fusion. The European scene is also given a thoughtful look. Did you ever wonder what the whole ECM thing evolved into? Tineke Postma and Bugge Wesseltoft are keeping the genre alive and well on the other side of the Atlantic. Bringing things full circle, the film finishes in post-Katrina New Orleans. "Icons Among Us" is jam-packed with interviews and performances by just about everybody who belongs in a film about Jazz in 2010. Despite the large scope, no coverage is given to Latin, Avant-garde, Brazilian, Free or Jewish Jazz. Focusing on 'real' Jazz, Smooth Jazz isn't dignified with so much as a mention. While the film may preach to the choir, any Jazz listener is bound to walk away with new found knowledge. The production is excellent. The sound quality is fantastic for the live performances and the video editing is deliciously stylish. While this is a great piece of film, the committed will want to go all the way and get the full four disc version. If you believe that Ken Burns stopped short, this long overdue film will bring you up-to-date. So where have all the Ellingtons, Parkers and Coltranes gone? They're here and you'll know who they are after watching "Icons Among Us."
