Multi-instrumentalist
Collette came to front a 20-piece group for this in-concert date at
the Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C., as part of a
Library Of Congress Jazzfest. For this hour program,
Collette presents his original compositions, many modern charts adapted to larger accompaniment. Besides the world-class flute, sax, and clarinet of the leader, you get exceptional solo and ensemble work from clarinetist/saxophonist
Jack Kelson; supplemental saxophonists
Ann Patterson,
John Stephens, and
Louie Taylor; trombonists
George Bohanon,
Garnett Brown,
Maurice Spears, and
Britt Woodman; trumpeters
Al Aarons and
Ron Barrows; pianist
Gerald Wiggins; guitarist
Al Viola; and other notables. The band starts with the bright flute-driven bopper
"Magali" with a drum break from
Ndugu Leon Chanceler and a handsome sub melody from the other horns, then all join together on this memorable line. Call and response splendor is extant during
"Andre," the bridge having an Afro-Cuban rhythm and a good swing section for
Collette's tenor sax.
Kelson's clarinet lead intro and free improv with
Viola's guitar prompts the band into insistent swing on
"Mr. & Mrs. Goodbye" from an easier wrought, older-type tradition.
Brown's piquant trombone takes the initial foray for
"Blues #4," the group supporting his extended wailing. Special guests
Chico Hamilton and
Ernie Fields, Jr. make cameo appearances on the finale
"Buddy Boo," as the drummer's signature roiling samba-tango swing leads to a happy swing that elevates the alto sax solo of
Fields to a high level as
Viola's tiny plucked notes tiptoe around the orchestral monster. This is a wonderful recording that gives further proof to the notion that
Buddy Collette continues to be one of the greatest jazz musicians of them all, and also an unsung hero of big-band legerdemain. The band being absolutely loaded can't hurt. Highly recommended. ~ Michael G. Nastos
