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Alexa Tarantino's 'The Roar and The Whisper' is Gary Walker's New Day New Play on WBGO January 19-24

Alexa Tarantino’s current recording is The Roar And The Whisper. First issued only digitally, it was overlooked by many until recently when radio was made aware of this saxophonist’s considerable talents.

Joined by pianist Steven Feifke, bassist Philip Norris, drummer Mark Whitfield, Jr. and special guests Cecile McLorin Salvant and percussionist Keita Ogawa, it captures the full breadth of Alexa’s expression - from fiery up-tempo to hushed balladry. There are originals alongside a captivating re-imagination of Billy Strayhorn’s Tigress, originally from Duke Ellington’s 1963 Afro-Bossa album.

WBGO's Daybreak host Gary Walker spoke with Alexa Tarantino about The Roar and The Whisper. You can hear the entire conversation below:

NDNPGWAlexaTarantino.mp3
WBGO's <i>Daybreak</i> host Gary Walker chats with saxophonist Alexa Tarantino about her latest album <i>The Roar and The Whisper</i>

Hear a track from The Roar And The Whisper each weekday morning @ 8:20AM, and visit WBGO.org to hear a conversation with Alexa chatting about her latest release.

In jazz radio, great announcers are distinguished by their ability to convey the spontaneity and passion of the music. Gary Walker is such an announcer, and his enthusiasm for this music greets WBGO listeners every morning on Daybreak. He's the winner of the 1996 Gavin Magazine Jazz Radio Personality of the Year Award and the recipient of the 2021 Marian McPartland-Willis Conover Award for Career Achievement in Broadcasting from the Jazz Journalists Association. Gary hosts the morning show each weekday from 8am til noon. And, by his own admission, he's truly having a great time.