THE ROB MCCONNELL TENTET - JUSTIN TIME 150-2
I have lost count of the times I have been asked when the next McConnell album will appear. The question pre-supposes the next album will be by the Boss Brass. Not surprising when you appreciate that the 'Brass' is one of the most influential big bands anywhere, and the arrangements for the band are sought by caring band-leaders everywhere.
Rob has put the 'Brass' aside for the time being and is concentrating on creating a show-case for some of the finest talent in Canada. The Tentet eased it's way into our conciousness in 1997 in Toronto and has gathered pace since then. Rob wants to play his trombone, much as he loved the Boss Brass, there was never enough room for him to stretch. I assume that preparing those complex orchestrations for the next release by the big band every year for the new CD was losing a little of it's charm too.
You will recognise the guys in the new band, Guido Basso, Terry Clarke etc. You will also immediately be comfortable with the sound of the band. Rob's writing is unique, it is really an iron fist in a velvet glove. While you are enjoying the eloquence of Guido, the beauty of the written backgrounds and many other attributes you expected from the Brass, you will have to be reminded that you are swinging dangerously and a speed that could be hazardous to your health.
Care has been taken at every level in the arranging of these titles. The density of the arrangements, the fullness and luxory of the of the overall sound is wonderful. This is not a small band sound!
The band: Rob McConnell - valve trombone,Terry Promane - trombone, Guido Basso -flugel, P.J.Perry -Alto Mike Murley - tenor, Alex Dean - tenor, Steve McDade - Trumpet, Steve Wallace - Bass, Terry Clarke - Drums and Dave Restivo - piano.
The music: Old Devil Moon, Speak Low, Two Bass Hit, Everything I Love, Con Alma, Maybe September, Theme For Jobim, Ian Leaps Out, Lush Life and These Are The Things I Love. I hope you rush out and buy this album.