A Message From The Flying Horse Big Band
Self-Released, 2023
9/10
Listen to A Message From The Flying Horse Big Band
This 8th album from the Flying Horse Big Band tips its hat to legendary jazz figures, where songs by Wayne Shorter, Hank Mobley, Benny Golson and others are fleshed out by the esteemed ensemble.
The frisky “Free For All” opens the listen with the animated brass and lively drumming from James Fortune that complements Edmund ‘Quint’ Johnson’s vibrant tenor sax, and “Hipsippy Blues” follows with Steven Grant’s agile sax alongside Michael Santos’ skilled bass that help illuminate the rich landscape.
The middle belongs to the distinct spirit of “Mosaic”, where Jack Hoag’s well placed keys and the colorful horns mesmerize, while “Peace” trims the pace back with much intimacy that’s populated by Jamesly Jean-Mary’s calm drums and Noah Mosca’s moody baritone sax.
Residing near the end, the upbeat and dance floor ready “Whisper Not” benefits from Micah Silverstein’s glowing alto sax, and “On The Ginza” exits with a scrappy presence via Paul Van Wormer’s alto sax and a solo from Josh Mercado’s meticulous trumpet.
A listen packed with inimitable interpretations, the Flying Horse Big Band never disappoint, and that trend continues here.
Travels well with: Andrew Binder- Conspiracy Deliracy; The Pacific Jazz Group- The Pacific Jazz Group