Bite Your Tongue
Self-Released, 2026
9/10
An ensemble who perform music composed and arranged by members of the band, The Interplay Jazz Orchestra treat us to 9 tracks that are quite detailed.
“The Congregation” opens the listen with Damien Pacheco’s bright trumpet and James Miceli’s animated sax adding much energy to the colorful climate, and the title track follows with John Marshall’s tenor sax and Dave Lobenstein’s bass complementing the warm delivery.
“My Foolish Heart” arrives in the middle and twinkles with beauty amid Jay Orig’s intimate keys and Pacheco’s emotive trumpet, while “Strasbourg-St. Denis” allows for Chris Donohue’s alto-sax and Baron Lewis’ trumpet to radiate timeless jazz alongside the flowing melodies.
“Night And Day” and “Blues For Adrian” exit the listen. The former bops and shakes with a lively spirit via Chris Scarnato’s baritone sax and Cameron Esccovedo’s drums, and the latter recruits Joey Devassy’s trombone for a cozy and indeed bluesy finish.
An extremely meticulous effort that embraces plenty of diversity, all the players contribute their talents to a solo and groove filled experience that makes a lasting impression.
Travels well with: The Flying Horse Big Band- Unbridled; Dave Schumacher- Agua Con Gas