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Jentsch Group Large: Brooklyn Suite
ByEnter Brooklyn Suite by guitarist/composer, Chris Jentsch, who helms just such a group, articulating his statement of "what my life sounds like" in Brooklyn, New York. With extensive work as a sideman, previous recordings that include Miami Suite (Blue Schist, 1999)and a number of grants and commissions, Jentsch is more than just a seasoned musician; he's a composer who can convey his ideas on a grand scale.
The nine movement suite is the quintessential framework for a modern big band, with thematic imprints of storytelling linking each piece to the next, like chapters in a book. And this book swings with the grace of Duke Ellington and rocks with the nuance of Frank Zappa.
A reoccurring theme is woven in the recording's fabric through meticulous horns arranged in interchanging sections. "Opening Shards" begins like the dawnpeacefully and introspectively. But like a developing day, "Outside Line," is energized with quickened tempo, swirling horns, and trombone and sax solos. The sculpture of this orchestration comes together as each instrument forms the final work.
Jentsch's charts are fully realized, and so is his performance. The guitar's warm, sustained, slightly overdriven tone adds texture and personality as he weaves in and out of each piece, and soars on "Closing Shards."
The final two pieces, "See You in Bali" and "Our Daily Dread" depart from the suite's main theme but are just as enjoyable. The former is a swinging number with a growling baritone sax solo; the later serves up some natty dread reggae, slowly stewed with wailing horns and a feel-good vibea fine conclusion to a satisfying work of music.
Track Listing
Opening Shards; Inside (Interlude); Outside Line; Going to Hail; Follow that Cab; Imagining the Mirror; Closing Shards; See You in Bali; Our Daily Dread.
Personnel
Chris Jentsch
guitar, electricChris Jentsch: guitar; John Mettam: drums; Jim Whitney: double bass; JC Standford: conductor; John Carlson: trumpet; Laurie Frink: trumpet; Jon Owens: trumpet; Russ Johnson trumpet; Brian Drye: trombone; Alan Ferber: trombone; Jacob Garchik: trombone; Kurtis Pivert: trombone; Ben Kono: reeds; Andy Laster: reeds; John O'Gallagher: reeds; Mike McGinnis; Dan Willis: reeds.
Album information
Title: Brooklyn Suite | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: Fleur De Son
Comments
About Chris Jentsch
Instrument: Guitar, electric
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