The New Wonders
Turtle Bay, 2023
8/10
An active member of the New York jazz movement, the cornetist, arranger and vocalist Mike Davis makes an impression with this debut album that employs The New Wonders band, i.e. Joe McDonough, Ricky Alexander, Jared Engel, Dalton Ridenhour, Jay Rattman and Jay Lepley.
“Flamin’ Mamie” opens the listen with an animated old time feel that uses Ridenhour’s swift keys and McDonough’s lively trumpet superbly, and “Reaching For Someone (And Not Finding Anyone There)” follows with Davis’ expressive singing guiding the soulful cornet and Lepley’s agile drumming.
Deeper into the listen, “Persian Rug” is populated by a retro spirit that seems like it should soundtrack a night at a speakeasy, while “I Need Lovin’” is a loud and dance floor ready album highlight thanks to the animated brass, rattling drums and rhythmic interplay.
Nearing the end, “Jungle Crawl” moves a bit more cautiously amid the dense horns and warm keys, and “The Baltimore” exits with an upbeat and contagious energy of timeless, nostalgic jazz.
Davis and company put a fresh coat of paint on these traditional jazz tunes with strong attention to detail and plenty of adventurousness that will always be enjoyable.
Travels well with: Grant Geissman- Blooz; John Allee- Past Imperfect