Described as a celebration of London's thriving jazz scene, the line-up is certainly brimming with all-star talent. Big hitters every one, playing Smith's compositions and arrangements.
A Year in the Life has some agile alto (soprano?) sax soloing by the leader. There's a tone poem feel about it that continues throughout with little or no breaks between tracks.
Speedboat in Trouble has fast passages by the saxes with some free blowing by the 'bones. The gentle piano solo floats effectively in between the rollercoaster moods. Do they survive or end up in Davy Jones' locker? The listener can decide.
Saviour Suzanne is a smooth track with a nice and easy trombone solo and some cool alto. The title suggests a gospel influence but not according to my conception of 'the word'. I'm not complaining, I'm sure Suzanne has her own way of spreading the gospel around. Maybe she saved the speedboat crew!
Breathe, composed in conjunction with Tom Smith by guitarist Jamie McCredie, is an introspective, searching composition by Jamie who is also set to play a gig at the Globe in Newcastle this Thursday (Feb. 27). On the strength of this it should be a gig worth catching proving that good things aren't totally restricted to London.
We're Being Watched, another composition that McCredie has a hand in. This time with Paul Booth (Howay the lads!). Donachie on B3 gives it a funky feel. The guitar solo adds an ethereal, outer space element. Maybe there are extraterrestrial beings out there. It's a powerful track.
Atlas. A beautiful composition arranged to suit the rich harmonies available from such a line-up as this. Trumpet soloist Freddie Gavita impresses, likewise whoever's blowing alto.
Aplomb. A good old foot tapping stomper serving as a timely reminder that no matter how you dress it up swing is still there if you dig deep enough. The trombone solo could slot into any jazz setting without compromise.
Somewhere Far From Here. A dreamy like start that builds, then cools and then builds again suggesting the highs and lows of two star crossed lovers planning an escape from the ties that bind them to someone else. The wailing saxes over Tomlinson's drumming and the sheets of sound from the brass suggest they're nearing their goal.
Swansea Uproar. The title had me confused until I noticed a boozer, the Swansea, on the album artwork. I've no idea what caused the uproar so, instead, I'll sit back and enjoy the solos by alto, piano, tenor and trombone.
A fine example of a contemporary big band album that, like Emma Rawicz's concert with SSBB at the Glasshouse last Friday, keeps the genre alive and kicking. Lance
Now available on Fey Moose Records (CD, digital & double vinyl)
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