Twenty-six year old Berklee graduate Thompson is rapidly making a name for himself as one of the leading composers, arrangers, producers and entrepreneurs of his generation as this, his debut big band album, proves.
Six standards and four originals that really are original hit the spot on all fronts. Solos, sectionwork, arrangements, you name it. If this band had appeared on the scene before the moneychangers in the Temple (the Cavern) realised that four kids and a Marshall Stack could make more noise than sixteen or more musicians and cost less (at least at first) then the course of popular music would have evolved differently.
It wouldn't of course unless say Tommy Steele had played the saxophone!
However, enough of my pipedreams.
All the Things You Are features Bijon Watson on trumpet and he gives Maynard and Cat a run for their money.
Let's Do It; Some great sax section voicing brings in Charlize for this clever Cole Porter lyric. If I have but one complaint it's that this is Charlize's only number.
Durango Drive, composed and arranged by Thompson, is a sombre, doomy affair with Caudill's tenor the only glimmer of light shining on the road to Vegas. Or maybe it's the road from Vegas which would explain a lot.
There Will Never be Another You, Always a good number to loosen up your chops with which Buss does effectively on soprano. Shilansky keeps the flame burning with a little help from Walker. It swings.
Parisian Deception, composed and arranged by Thompson, it is said to be based around an ill-fated trip to Paris. Tantalisingly we're given no further info so all that remains is to enjoy Caudill's saxploitation and the intense percussion à la batterie from Walker.
Anything Goes swings along nicely with Shilansky's piano solo and le tout ensemble taking the honours. Oh and Cole Porter also had his say as did Thompson who crafted Porter's original into a fine arrangement. If you want to check your respiratory status try singing or playing the middle eight of the song without taking a breath. People have been known to die in the attempt so it's best not to try it at home, particularly if you play tuba.
6th Avenue. The title is reflective of Thompson's three years spent living in NYC. Watson blows cool this time around. Maynard not wanted on this street.
Chega de Saudade (No More Blues). Piano from Shilansky and a (better late than never) meaty bossa blast from Pingrey on trombone.
Someday my Prince Will Come features another musician who had to wait before getting the call - flautist Sarpay Özçağatay. Great sound and great arrangement by - don't ask!
May may mean a month, a former UK PM or a come what may situation. Here it refers to another splendid composition by Thompson that features Shilansky, Caudill and Rosenthal. It's a gentle piece that brings the album to a satisfying close. Lance
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