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Joe Magnarelli: Persistence
ByMagnarelli studied with James Moody and Tommy Turrentine, began his professional career with Lionel Hampton and Brother Jack McDuff and was a semifinalist in the Thelonious Monk International Trumpet Competition in 1990. His bandpianist David Hazeltine, bassist Peter Washington, drummer Kenny Washington and baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyanhave similar backgrounds and all enjoy a love of mainstream jazz.
Amplifying the album's underlying title theme, Magnarelli's program includes standards, originals, slow ballads and fast romps. A Bird-like interpretation of "You and the Night and the Music" rolls with lightning quickness and a thundering muscular approach that recalls Parker with Miles Davis. The original "D Train Boogaloo" is a funk-driven encounter that would have made Lee Morgan proud. "The Village" emulates the universal nature of jazz as it's found in the city while "Soul Sister" remakes "Body and Soul" as a quirky waltz based in familiar territory but stepping outside the circle for a creative aside. Magnarelli's smooth technique and fun-loving, rhythmic swing give this album universal appeal.
Track Listing
Persist; The Village; I Had the Craziest Dream; D Train Boogaloo; Haunted Heart; You and the Night and the Music; Ballad for Barretto; Soul Sister.
Personnel
Joe Magnarelli: trumpet; Gary Smulyan: baritone saxophone; David Hazeltine: piano; Peter Washington: bass; Kenny Washington: drums.
Album information
Title: Persistence | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: Reservoir Music