Night City
Bjur, 2024
8/10
The 8th recording from the pianist/conductor Neal Kirkwood, the 12 tracks here welcome a large cast for a thriving and exciting Big Band performance.
After the quick and rhythmic “Prelude: Invitation”, “Eve’s Garden” follows with a hint of drama, as Ron Horton’s flugelhorn and Kirkwood’s piano cultivate much warmth.
Halfway through, the bouncy and stylish “Skywalkers” spotlights Willie Applewhite’s trombone and Adam Kolker’s tenor sax with playfulness, while “When I Hear That Serenade In Blue” takes nods to Jack Kerouac, where Diana Herold handles the lead vocal line on the vibraphone, and James Zollar’s trumpet is well placed and utilized superbly.
Arriving near the end, “Monolithic Attitude” carries a distinct dreaminess that benefits from Matt Hong’s soprano sax via the 10+ minutes of captivating song craft, and “The Light Of Birds” exits with Kirkwood’s meticulous, ambient keys alongside rich flute from Kolker and Hong.
A listen that exemplifies the hopes and dreams of city life, Kirkwood and company create swift melodies, uplifting interaction and animated rhythm that will appeal to fans of jazz from any era.
Travels well with: Tsuyoshi Yamamoto Trio- A Shade Of Blue; Alex Norris- Chess Moves