Tatum’s Swingin’ Session
Self-Released, 2025
9/10
Listen to Tatum’s Swingin’ Sesssion
Chicago’s Shout Section Big Band turn in a lively one here, where the animated 14 songs are led by Tatum Langley’s playful voice.
“Deedle’s Blues” starts the listen with Langley’s soaring pipes alongside the bright brass and Ben Crino’s warm guitar, and “Ridin’ High” follows with a frisky energy thanks to Stuart Seale’s strategic keys.
“Swingin’ On Nothing” lands in the middle and trims the pace back with T. J. Thompson’s soft drums amid the soulful trombone, while “I Hadn’t Anyone Till You” tugs on the heartstrings and allows for Jack Sundstrom’s cozy bass to shine.
“You’re The Top” lands at the end and is a scrappy and infectious album highlight that’s charming and memorable, and “The Masquerade Is Over” exits with Langley’s gripping voice guiding us through the careful and rich finish.
The band consists of 18 players, where the saxophone, trombone and trumpet sections interact with plenty of precision for this 5th album of timeless Big Band fun.
Travels well with: The Pete McGuinness Jazz Orchestra- Mixed Bag; Christopher Zuar Orchestra- Exuberance