The Re-(W)rite of Spring

by Mobtown Modern Big Band, Darryl Brenzel

Overview

A number of jazz arrangers have been drawn to major classical works to reshape them into something that retains the essence of the original works yet introduces variations and improvisation. The challenge is for the interpreter to create a compelling, memorable adaptation, not usually an easy task. Darryl Brenzel chose one of the most demanding works of the 20th century, Igor Stravinsky's ballet "The Rite of Spring," then added an additional twist, recording it live in front of an audience during its premiere performance in 2010 at the Metro Gallery in Baltimore, Maryland, which took place about a month after he completed his work. The Baltimore musicians who make up the Mobtown Modern Big Band give their all throughout this concert, which successfully blends elements of its original score with Brenzel's new conception, though it stretches out a good deal longer than original ballet, clocking in at around 74 minutes. Anyone who is familiar with the orchestra setting of "The Rite of Spring" and has an open mind about reworking classical music will find much to enjoy in "The Re-(W)Rite of Spring." The solos are usually fairly brief, with more emphasis on the colorful ensembles. Unlike Stravinsky's premiere performance of "The Rite of Spring," with loud protests from the audience about this dissonant, groundbreaking music, Brenzel's audience obviously appreciates the mastery of the arranger's new take on the nearly century-old ballet. One question remains: will this be a one-time performance or something that future jazz orchestras perform in concert? ~ Ken Dryden

Product Details

Release Date:	07/31/2012
Label:	Innova
UPC:	0726708682422
Rank:	204930

Tracks

1. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Introduction
2. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Dances of the Young Girls
3. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Ritual of Abduction
4. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Spring Rounds
5. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Ritual of the Rival Tribes
6. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Procession of the Sage
7. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. The Sage
8. The ReWrite of Spring~Part One. Adoration of the Earth. Dance of the Earth
9. The ReWrite of Spring~Part Two. The Sacrifice. Introduction
10. The ReWrite of Spring~Part Two. The Sacrifice. Mystic Circle of the Young Girls
11. The ReWrite of Spring~Part Two. The Sacrifice. Glorification of the Chosen One
12. The ReWrite of Spring~Part Two. The Sacrifice. Evocation of the Ancestors
13. The ReWrite of Spring~Part Two. The Sacrifice. Ritual Action of the Ancestors
14. The ReWrite of Spring~Part Two. The Sacrifice. Sacrificial Dance (The Chosen One)

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Mobtown Modern Big Band   Primary Artist,Band
Darryl Brenzel   Primary Artist,Conductor,Sax (Alto)
Jeff Adams   Trombone
Stephen Lesche   Guitar
Michael Johnston   Flugelhorn
Brad Danhoe   Sax (Tenor)
Jeff Lopez   Bass
Josh Fox   Sax (Alto)
Pat Shook   Sax (Tenor)
Timothy Young   Piano
Paul White   Sax (Baritone)
Michael Bravin   Trombone
Andrew Layton   Sax (Soprano)

Technical Credits

Robert McIver Jr.   Photography
Scott Vincent   Design
Bill Wolf   Mastering
Igor Stravinsky   Original Material
Mark McLaughlin   Mixing,Engineer,Producer
Chris Campbell   Management
Philip Blackburn   Label Coordination
Darryl Brenzel   Composer,Producer,Liner Notes