Visions Jazz Ensemble: Across the Field

Here is a unique and intriguing concept: a baker's dozen collegiate anthems and fight songs, trimly recast in contemporary jazz settings by the seven-member Visions Jazz Ensemble, comprised of Indiana University alumni who stride Across the Field with an abundance of proficiency and perception.

Although the hip arrangements by the ensemble's co-leaders, trumpeter Sam Butler and tenor saxophonist Garrett Fasig, sometimes turn these largely familiar songs inside out and upside down, every one of them has its own personality and charm, hallmarks that are superbly accentuated by the ensemble's expertise and dedication. Georgia Tech's "Ramblin' Wreck" as a jazz march? Notre Dame's "Victory March" as a waltz? Ohio State's "Across the Field" as a melancholy ballad? Southern Cal's "Fight On" as a groovy blues? "Anchors Aweigh" as straight-ahead swing? "On Wisconsin" as a minor-key burner? It is all there—and more, as the ensemble puts its best foot forward on these and other cornerstones of the collegiate songbook.

Trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, an alumnus of Florida A&M University, sits in and solos on the band's colorful tribute to that school, "Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight," co-arranged by Butler and Fasig, who split arranging duties elsewhere. Aside from their awesome charts, Butler and Fasig are avid team players and stellar soloists, as are other members of the ensemble, each of whom has more than one chance to shine. Pianist Dan Ventura is showcased on Ohio State's "Across the Field," trombonist Jeff Parker on "On Wisconsin." Bassist Jacob Smith is paired with Fasig on "Anchors Aweigh." And a word or two must be said about the album's sassy NOLA-style opener, "Tiger Rag" (for Louisiana State University).

As noted, a marvelous idea, one the Visions ensemble quickly grasps and makes its own. You need not be a lover of collegiate fight songs or sports of any stripe to appreciate this gracious homage, which is stocked from end to end with lustrous and charming contemporary jazz.