Mike Longo: Oasis

Vocalist Hilary Gardner interprets "Love Walked In," "Song of My Dream," and "The Night We Called it a Day." She's particularly effective on the latter Matt Dennis composition, where emotions take over and you're persuaded to breathe a big sigh in relief. Here, the band's Latin arrangement turns the piece into a casual celebration of fate turning things around in our favor. Equally effective is her interpretation of Frank Perowsky's "Song of My Dream," a heartfelt dedication to Duke Ellington.

Longo can be heard soloing on "No More Blues," 'Infusion," "Lazy Afternoon," and in several other key locations on the program. He prefers, however, to remain a vital part of the organization this time out and shine the spotlight on the artists he's assembled here. The ensemble's outstanding soloists include alto saxophonists Lee Greene & Bob Magnuson, bass clarinetist Matt Snyder, trombonists Sam Burtis & Eric Goletz, bassist Santi Debriano, tenor saxophonists Perowsky and Gerry Niewood, trumpeters Gary Guzio, Joe Magnarelli, Freddie Hendrix & Nabate Isles, guitarist Adam Rafferty, drummer Daryl Pelligrini, and pianist/leader Longo.

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