East Meets West: Connections
Chronograph, 2025
8/10
Listen to East Meets West: Connections
This 8th album from the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra features the works of the Canadian composers Fred Stride and Jean-Nicolas Trottier, and it’s one of their best yet, which is no easy task.
“Sounds Of Joy” opens, and makes an immediate impression thanks to Fabio Ragnelli’s lively drums and Victoria Sparks’ well timed vibes that suit the glowing brass, and “Hello Jean-Nicolas” follows with a quick blast of cinematic ideas that blend together with color and richness.
In the middle, the intimate spirit of “Echoes From Within” allows for the emotive trombones to shine, while “The Healing Song” radiates tremendous power and meticulousness via Will Bonness’ sophisticated keys and the sax and trumpet interaction.
Landing close to the end, “Another Look” uses careful moods and bouts of density with strong attention to detail, and “The Great Return” exits with soulful sax, Karl Kohut’s strategic bass plucking and much texturing.
WJO’s history and contributions are nothing short of impactful, and this body of work continues with rhythm, dissonance, shifting layers and timeless jazz orchestra techniques that few others could replicate.
Travels well with: Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra- Tidal Currents: East Meets West; Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra- Voices: A Musical Heritage