Big Band Extravaganza
Dmac, 2023
9/10
Listen to Big Band Extravaganza
The long running guitarist extraordinaire Doug MacDonald returns with a 17 piece jazz orchestra for this aptly titled 10 tracks that swings with the best of them, and illustrates very inventive song craft.
“Toluca Lake Jazz” starts the listen with an infectious energy, where MacDonald’s spirited guitar guides Kim Richmond’s alto sax and Ivan Malespin’s trombone in the soulful yet playful climate, and “Rashomon” follows with Tim McKay’s baritone sax making an impression amid Paul Kreibich’s precise drumming that complements the cautious mood.
In the middle, “Desert Jazz” shakes and bounces with Rickey Woodward’s tenor sax and Aaron Janik’s trumpet front and center, while “De Ha” is a charming and booming album highlight that welcomes Andy Langham’s animated piano prowess.
Close to the end, “Minor Mess” benefits much from Les Benedict’s soaring trombone and Kreibich’s acrobatic drumming, and “Ya Know Bill” exits with Carl Saunders handling trumpet and Bill Cunliffe’s fantastic piano alongside MacDonald’s fluent and adaptable guitar playing.
An ensemble that formed in 2020, let’s hope that MacDonald has more Big Band recordings on the horizon, cause the flowing melodies, abundance of solos and lively energy makes for a swinging experience like no other.