Swingin’ Uptown
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
An aptly titled record from Eyal Vilner Big Band, the sounds here draw from the past and molds it into a modern day delivery of 16 energetic tracks.
The rhythmic and upbeat “Chicken An’ Dumplings” opens the listen with John Lake’s animated trumpet and Jon Thomas’ key acrobatics adding much to the rich climate, and it isn’t long until “Tell Me Pretty Baby” arrives with Julieta Eugenio’s well timed tenor sax that suits Imani Rousselle’s powerful and smooth vocals.
Moving into the middle, the frisky “Tea For Two” benefits much from Eran Fink’s lively drums and Ian Hutchison’s bouncy bass, while “I Love The Rhythm In A Riff” brings back Rousselle’s playful pipes amid a scrappy rhythm section and glorious brass.
Deeper still, “Hellzapoppin’” showcases Josh Lee’s intricate baritone sax via the swift and dynamic late album highlight, and “Afternoon At Smalls” exits with James Zollar’s trumpet, Robert Edwards’ trombone and Bill Todd’s alto sax, plus many more, for a busy versus calm finish.
The album has its roots in Harlem, but the dance friendly landscape and Vilner’s contributions on alto sax, clarinet, flute, conducting and arranging will amaze fans worldwide.
Travels well with: Eyal Vilner Big Band- The Jam!; David Murray Quartet- Francesca