Exuberance
Tonal Conversations, 2024
9/10
The inestimable composer and bandleader Christopher Zuar leads a 22 piece jazz orchestra through these 7 involved and meticulous selections.
“In Winter Blooms” opens the listen with a distinct mood, where Drew Gress’ lively bass and Jason Rigby’s animated tenor sax make an impression, and “Moments In Between” follows with Matt Holmon’s intimate flugelhorn adding much sensitivity to the thoughtful climate.
“Simple Machines” and “Before Dawn” arrive in the middle. The former showcases Ben Kono’s tenor sax, Joe Brent’s mandolin and Sara Caswell’s violin for the chamber influenced album highlight, while the latter recruits Mark Ferber’s drums, Pete McCann’s guitar and Charles Pillow’s alto sax via the cinematic and exploratory delivery.
The title track exits, and makes great use of Emma Frank’s bright vocals amid Dave Pietro’s elegant alto sax and Scott Wendholt’s well timed trumpet.
A rich and complicated effort that is universally enjoyable, Zuar pens a romantic and colorful body of work that resonates long after the music stops.
Travels well with: Jon Gordon- 7th Ave South; Omar Thomas Large Ensemble- Griot Songs