The Ben-Oni Orchestra: Inner City Sounds Of The Ben-Oni Orchestra

In a curious bit of sequencing, the album opens with its only vocal pieces, "Don't Get Around Much Anymore and "Do Nothing Till You Hear from Me, performed by baritone Russel Branch. Branch is earnest enough, but his articulation leaves much to be desired. As for the orchestra, its performance might best be described as workmanlike. I'd guess that all or most of its members are part-timers; even so, they acquit themselves fairly well, in spite of a number of audible missteps, especially among the brass. Throughout, Ben-Oni plays it straight, reading the charts as written and eschewing any personal interpretations. Tempos are generally acceptable, although Strayhorn's "'A' Train isn't quite up to speed.

Soloists are unlisted, and that's just as well, as there are no standouts among them. Neither, on the other hand, are there any who embarrass themselves. Much like the orchestra itself, they are earnest but undistinguished. While it's always good to revisit these exemplary yet time-worn themes, the Ben-Oni Orchestra brings nothing new to the table, and its album would be most appreciated by those who haven't yet heard them (yes, that's a stretch, but surely there must be some who fit that description). Sound quality is acceptable, but please note the LP-like 38:44 playing time.

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