University of Nevada-Las Vegas: Let The Good Times Roll

If energy and enthusiasm were enough to earn a prize, the University of Nevada Las Vegas Jazz Ensemble 1 would surely have one in hand to salute its newest album, Let the Good Times Roll, a textbook lesson in buoyant and heavy-duty big-band jazz. While co-directors Dave Loeb and Nathan Tanouye enlist no fewer than seven talented guest artists to lend a hand, several of the album's highlights take place when none of its guests is in the lineup. To put it another way, while the ensemble no doubt welcomes and appreciates the support, it is more than ready and able to step forward and carry the baton on its own.

That is readily apparent on the five numbers entrusted to the ensemble alone, which include splendid readings of Oscar Pettiford's "Bohemia After Dark," drummer Mateo Hurtado de Mendoza's "The Collective," Duke Ellington's "Braggin' n' Brass," pianist Tristan Selzler's dynamic "Finale (for Katie Charlotte)" and especially the charismatic and too-seldom-heard standard, "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes." The ensemble is sharp and focused on every one, as are its (unnamed) soloists. If forced to choose a favorite track, "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" would edge the others, but not by more than an eyelash.

That is not meant to imply that the ensemble's guests are less than capable or pleasing. Baritone saxophonist (and faculty member) Adam Schroeder is tasteful and eloquent on Jorge Machain's handsome and melodic "Check Up," as is trombonist (and faculty member) Isrea Butler on Tommy Dorsey's well-traveled theme, "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You." Trumpeter Kenny Rampton delivers a dazzling solo on Ellington's high-spirited "Chinoiserie," and trombonist Kurt Miller follows suit on Johnny Mandel's amorous "Emily." A trio of guest vocalists adds even more spice to the recipe: Clint Holmes on "Let the Good Times Roll," Naomi Mauro on "Too Close for Comfort," Laura Taylor on the Joe Williams staple, "Alright, Okay, You Win."

Jazz Ensemble 1 is in lock-step at every turn, providing unwavering support and taking the reins when necessary to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. To help further the cause, ensemble members Jaren Glick (guitar) arranged "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes," Renzon Maballo (tenor sax) "Emily," Surafael Tamre (trumpet) "Bohemia After Dark," Kirby Galbraith (bass trombone) "Chinoiserie" and "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You." The ensemble nails every one of them, a blueprint that proves unbeatable from start to finish. The good times start rolling promptly on this strong and colorful session and keep shaking through the last shout chorus on its smoldering finale. Even without its guests, Good Times is an impressive narrative by UNLV's stellar Jazz Ensemble 1; with them, an even better one.

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