UMO Jazz Orchestra with Kenny Wheeler & Norma Winstone: One More Time

Wheeler composed all of these pieces as the music typifies the trumpeter’s familiar -soaring skyward – approach enhanced by his conveyance of yearning or soul-searching lines. On “The One More Time Suite”, the band pursues harmonious passages, augmented by captivating horn arrangements as Ms. Winstone counters the proceedings with crystalline wordless vocals. Here, the listener is treated to peaceable yet blossoming horn charts amid ambrosial unison choruses and memorably melodic soloing. Throughout, Winstone glides atop the often-complex arrangements while harmonizing with the horn section as Wheeler steers the band through stately themes and medium tempo swing vamps. With “Sea Lady”, Ms. Winstone’s airy vocals and poignant lyrics coalesce with Teemu Salminen’s lush flute soloing, while the horn section seamlessly maneuvers into the story line.

The overall production boasts a potpourri of melodic arrangements frequently accelerated by Wheeler’s commanding lines and equalized by Winstone’s spirited vocals. Yet, this band can swing with the best of them. - Basically, One More Time is a significant event, marked by a touch of class. Highly recommended!

* * * * 1/2 (out of * * * * *)

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