Happy New Year to all!  I'm ringing in 2019 with a new piece for CultureSonar, celebrating the parallel histories of two legendary NYC music retailers: Manny's Music, and Sam Ash.  What are some of your most cherished memories of 48th…

http://globaltexanchronicles.com/john-montagna-interview

LISTEN TO ME JABBER ON ABOUT GEORGE HARRISON! 

About a year ago, Ken Michaels interviewed me on his "Every Little Thing" radio show about my love for George's 1987 "Cloud Nine" album. The interview is now available…

Hello all! 

Just in time for holiday listening, our latest episode of the "Breaking It Down with Jeff and John" podcast is live, celebrating the artistry of drum legend Steve Gadd. 

From his roots in Rochester, NY to…

Photo Credit: David Sanborn by Sam Zhang courtesy of the artist

https://www.culturesonar.com/sanborn-sessions-a-new-day-for-night-music/

Those closest to me know how passionate I am about "Night Music," the revolutionary music series hosted by David Sanborn on NBC from 1988-1990.  So you…

I recently fell under the spell of son Cubano thanx to Craft Recordings' red hot "Complete Cuban Jam Sessions" box set! 

Check out my review for CultureSonar here. 

Be well

JM

Photo Credit: Cachao and His…

Today's episode is entitled "Yesterday And Today."  Jeff and I re-examine some of our favorite music from our youth to see if it holds up to our modern-day, grown-up scrutiny. Click the photo and listen to find out what happens…

http://www.culturesonar.com/breaking-it-down-ep1/

It's been so hard to keep this a secret until now!  My dear friend and fellow bassist Jeff Ganz and I have created "Breaking It Down," a music podcast for CultureSonar.  We will explore the music, players and…

http://www.culturesonar.com/sonny-rollins-way-out-west/

Sonny Rollins is undoubtedly one of the most influential American jazz musicians of all time.  His landmark LP "Way Out West" just turned 60, and Craft Recordings has released a 2-LP deluxe anniversary reissue that's worth every penny…

http://www.culturesonar.com/nightmusic/

For two seasons on NBC (1988-1990) David Sanborn hosted "Night Music," showcasing the finest musicians in jazz, rock, R&B, the blues and everything in between. My final CultureSonar piece for 2017 celebrates this ground-breaking TV series, a "vortex…

Sunday morning 10.29.17 11am I switched on the Facebook Live with my bass and jammed for almost 2 hours.  Here's the best stuff! 

Be well

JM

http://www.culturesonar.com/10-quintessential-bass-lines-80s-pop/

A young man and his Peavey Fury bass, circa 1987.  What music inspired this fine youngster to pick up a bass guitar and learn how to play?  How were his sensibilities formed about what the function of…

http://www.culturesonar.com/mariah-carey/

My latest piece for CultureSonar is live, extolling the virtues of Mariah Carey.  Time to recognize Mimi as the American Cultural Icon that she is!  

#ARIESPOWER

Be well

JM