Sandviken Big Band

Sandviken Big Band: In the Name of Freedom

by Jack Bowers
July 22, 2013

This admirably performed two-CD set by Sweden's celebrated Sandviken Big Band, recorded live in 2009 and comprised for the most part of music composed by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, isn't without its ambiguous aspects. First, there's the title: while anyone who produces an album is free to assign any name that seems appropriate, In the Name of Freedom is indeed puzzling, as it appears to have little if anything to do with what is being presented (and no explanation ...