Rob Parton's Jazztech Big Band: Two Different Days

As Associate Professor of Trumpet and Chairman of Jazz Studies for the Chicago College of Performing Arts of Roosevelt University, Rob Parton leads a swingin' big band in the tradition of Count Basie and like-minded organizations that have shown a hearty appreciation for straight-ahead pleasure.

His searing flugelhorn is featured on several swingers, and his trumpet solo on "Never Will I Marry" indicates that Parton feels what he teaches. Fluidly and seamlessly, he phrases his way through familiar standards and not-so-familiar originals. Backed by a cast of stellar veterans, the trumpeter leads his cohesive big band through delightfully improvised matters. Outstanding soloists from the band include trombonist Tom Garling, alto saxophonist Mike Smith, tenor saxophonist Mark Colby, cornetist Kirk Garrison, and baritone saxophonist Ted Hogarth.

Chuck Mangione's "She's Gone" adds the magic touch of a 26-piece Chicago chamber orchestra as Parton explores the somber side of a ballad with bared emotions. Stan Getz' "Blue Getz Blues" features saxophonist Colby in a lush setting that explores the dynamic force that Parton's Jazztech Big Band is capable of emitting. The blues oozes through his horn as the band's cohesive arrangement surrounds him with warm fuzzies. Similarly, Frank Rosolino's "Blue Daniel" brings it home with a warm welcome.

Garling's title track, "Two Different Days," pushes the modern mainstream toward its leading edge with rhythmic thrills and harmonic high points. Outstanding big band arrangements by Garling, Chris Madsen, Don Schamber and Thomas Matta give the band a highly recommended album. After fourteen years with this exciting unit, Rob Parton continues to create one masterpiece after another.