Spartan Strong
Origin, 2026
9/10
Michael Dease’s always exceptional trombone is joined by the MSU Jazz Trombones plus many others for these 14 Big Band fueled tracks that welcome much diversity.
Dease’s rich trombone starts the listen with “Huesos Con Clave” before Altin Sencalar offers an animated trombone solo and Xavier Davis’ dancing keys impress us, and “Remembrance” follows with a heartfelt mood thanks to Pablo Muller-Santiago’s rich trombone presence.
“Some Skunk Funk” arrives closer to the middle and benefits from Chris Glassman’s animated bass trombone amid a frisky energy, while “The Nearness Of You” spotlights Nanami Haruta’s elegant trombone and Keith Hall’s crisp drumming.
Close to the end, “Blues After Dark” allows for Kyle Quick’s bass trombone and Daniel Bear’s trombone to draw us into the bluesy flavor, and “Blues In The Closet” exits with Bridgette Setters and Dan Parrish’s trombones adding greatly to the swift and dynamic finish.
There’s a couple of rhythm sections present, and they sure to contribute greatly to the Afro-Cuban grooves, trombone choir bouts and colorful swingin’ fun of this infectious effort.
Travels well with: Mike Pope- The Parts You Keep; Ben Markley- Tell The Truth