“Thad Jones and the Ellington Effect” is a seven part suite based on the chapters of a Masters dissertation completed some years ago and in which I attempted to show how Thad Jones had been influenced by Duke Ellington both in his writing and arranging, and in the way in which he used the jazz Orchestra he co-led with drummer Mel Lewis from 1966 to 1979". So says the leader Tony Faulkner.
It seems to me that Tony Faulkner has succeeded in creating original music that is supports his thesis, and in doing so creates an excellent compact disc that swings in the style of Jones/Lewis from the top. Excellent fidelity.........
One thing that must be addressed is the thought that musicians of this calibre can only be found in the Capital. In fact a fair percentage of them hail from the North, the Midlands, Scotland and so on.
In the past employment was available in these areas until the work moved to London. There are still exceptional musicians in the Provinces striving against the odds to keep music live and educate young people . Drummer Tony Faulkner is such a musician; cognisant of the fact that there is a need refer to past masters as well as recognise that credit has to be given contemporary exponants of the genre. He has chosen to explore the music of Thad Jones and Mel Lewis and of course Duke Ellington.
I would recommend this CD to everyone, not only as a splendid entertainment and showcase for local musicians but as a reminder that music is where it is because of what has gone before.
The CD is available via Tony's web site.
Tracks:
Personnel:
THAD JONES AND THE ELLINGINGTON EFFECT