John Sheridan and his Dream Band: John Sheridan: Dream Band, Make Me Dream Some More

Pianist, arranger John Sheridan has put together an octet with a rhythm section that has a lively bounce. He’s got bright soloist stepping out of shifting sections that really swing. This is an octet with a big band sound that’s having infectious fun, theme-y fun.

John Sheridan:Dream Band, Make Me Dream Some More cover a line-up of songs like “Dream Dancing,” “Gotta Get Some Shut-Eye,” and “I’ll See You in My Dreams.” Get the drift? Vocalist Rebecca Kilgore steps in on five of the seventeen cuts to deliver some, dare I say, dreamy vocals. Really. John Sheridan’s arrangements are consistently exquisite accompaniments to her fine singing.

The rhythm section of John Sheridan, Reuben Ristrom, Phil Flanigan, and Jeff Hamilton is outstanding, providing a swing beat with flexibility and sophistication. Jeff Hamilton, on drums, is a particular pleasure to listen to for his touch and taste. The soloists are a very well balanced bunch with big ears. Two notable solos are Ron Hockett’s clarinet solo on “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” and John Sheridan’s piano solo on “Dream a Little Dream of Me.” These are two almost arbitrary choices among a wealth of outstanding solos.

This band plays together with a flair for the upbeat in beautifully arranged interactions, especially among the horns and reeds. John Sheridan gets the best out of players who sound like they’re having a great time with the music. This band will get you out onto the dance floor or just might coax you out into the moon glow of a balmy summer night. Take a chance, leave your worries behind – it’s Dream Time . . . Highly Recommended.

Tracks:I’ll See You in My Dreams; Dream a Little Dream of Me; Dream Man (Make Me Dream Some More; It’s the Dreamer in Me; Dream Dancing; I Had the Craziest Dream; When My Dreamboat Comes Home; Dream of You; Deep in a Dream; I’ve Got a Pocketful of Dreams; Harlem Lullaby; Gotta Get Some Shut-Eye; Dreamsville; Please Keep Me in Your Dreams; Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams; Sleep, Come On and Take Me; Dream. (71:19)