Soundscapes
MCG, 2021
9/10
The sax wizard, composer, arranger and conductor Bob Mintzer brings his esteemed band to this precisely textured listen that recruits guitars, woodwinds, saxophones, trumpets, trombones, keys and drums to a big band masterpiece.
“A Reprieve” starts the listen with no shortage of melody and rhythm as playful drumming from Hans Dekker complements Mintzer’s sax acrobatics, and “The Conversation” follows with a busy display of Billy Test’s warm piano alongside plenty of warm brass.
Halfway through, “Whack” emits much soul as playful woodwinds accent the very precise jazz climate, while “Canyon Winds” offers a full and dynamic execution of big band prowess that includes strong trumpet work that won’t go unnoticed. “Herky Jerky” then moves with an irresistible energy of swinging fun amid a timeless landscape of classic jazz spirit.
Residing near the end, “One Music” flows with a swift pace of frisky and stylish musicianship that will get your body moving, and “VM” brings a mature yet adventurous appeal that benefits much from Mintzer’s incredible playing.
Mintzer is in the company of 17 very skilled musicians here, and their collective strength makes for one of the most exciting big band efforts of the year.
Travels well with: Wayne Shorter- Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra With Wynton Marsalis; Schapiro 17- Human Qualties