This is the sort of band that contributes massively towards keeping the big band phenomenon alive. As we have come to expect from the Netherlands; a first class hard swinging big band, chock full of excellent soloists who, to a man, demonstrate all the skills that ensure an exciting dynamic performance that is what we hope for from a big band. This is why we love big bands and hopefully support them in concert. Any readers in or near Copenhagen should consider themselves very fortunate and rush to see this ban perform.
Recorded 'LIVE' in Copenhagen in February 2006 over two nights, we hear arrangements of standards by N.J.S. plus a few originals. The standards feature music of Basie, Ellington, Strayhorn, Parker, Carmichael and more. The leader is an alumnus of the Danish Radio Big Band. A compulsive arranger, he eventually just had to form this band to play his music. He admits to being a disciple of the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis group and this explains his arranging except that he is a little closer to the mainstream ensuring an even wider appear. An excellent arranger, he caters for the high calibre soloists in the band and at the time does not forget his audience. Too many arrangers indulge in technical fanatasies that excite the musician but confuse many in the audience. N.J.S. gets the balance absolutely right. Many, many smiles in the audience at his concerts!
Highly recomended album and available from me in the UK.
The band ( I apologise for any spelling problems):
Tracks :