That Metheny tune from the gig you just heard is still in your head as you refrain from humming, put on your headphones and find a way to listen to another version to extend the memory of it before you trundle back to the boring old suburbs and thoughts of scanning the ads for a better, any, job yet again next day. I was thinking of the wisdom of Bob in the wonderful film Nomadland starring Frances McDormand in this regard: “One of the things I love most about this life is that there’s no final goodbye. You know, I’ve met hundreds of people out here and I don’t ever say a final goodbye. I always just say, ‘I’ll see you down the road.’ And I do. And whether it’s a month, or a year, or sometimes years, I see them again.”
Have Something to Say?
If you’ve something to say about jazz, Marlbank is always open to contributions. Whether you’re a musician, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who listens closely and goes to gigs, we’re interested in hearing from you.
What matters most is an honest response to the music — a new release, a live set, or something older that still resonates. There’s no need for grand claims or overstatement; clarity, a point of view, and attention to what’s happening in the playing go a long way.
If your writing grows out of listening, you’ll feel at home here.
Send a message to stephen@marlbank.net and we’ll take it from there. Marlbank publishes new content daily, and we’re always keen to feature new voices. If writing isn’t your thing, you can also contribute a playlist or a voice note for inclusion in our weekly podcast.


