The Jam!
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist Eyal Vilner brings his inimitable vision to these 14 animated and swingin’ tunes, where an all-star ensemble makes for a festive and memorable big band experience.
“Just A Lucky So And So” gets the listen off to an energetic start, where Brandon Lee’s bright trumpet and Jon Thomas’ spirited piano complement Imani Rousselle’s soulful and powerful pipes, and “Chabichou” follows with John Lake’s lively trumpet and Julieta Eugenio’s frisky sax adding much rhythm to the playful climate.
Further on, “Monday Stroll” trims the pace back with Michael Hashim’s tenor sax and Bill Todd’s alto sax working together with much grace, while “Hard Hearted Hannah” welcomes Brianna Thomas’ expressive pipes alongside Robert Edwards’and Mariel Bildsten’s trombones to the warm album highlight.
Approaching the end, the dance floor ready “Tap Tap Tap” features Josh Lee’s baritone sax and Caleb Teicher’s tap shoes for the very charming landscape, and “Jumpin’ At The Woodside” exits the listen with a swift appeal that showcases the adventurous rhythm section of Ian Hutchison (bass) and Eran Fink (drums).
Vilner handles alto sax, clarinet, flute, conducting and arranging duties here, and together with the many players it makes for an essential listen in the area of modern big band sounds.
Travels well with: The Grace Fox Big Band- Eleven O’Seven; Roxy Coss- Disparate Parts