Samson Trinh: Very Strange Night

Three big band numbers stand out for their superb arrangements and cohesive swell. Trinh emphasizes the heavy baritone saxophone for a solid foundation and provides plenty of section interplay in between. His balance gives each band member a chance to participate equally. Soloists on "Time After Time include alto saxophonist Mike Cemprola, trumpeter Rex Richardson and pianist Adrian Duke. They're a bit stately and stiff, but they produce the desired results: they provide a window into the big band scene just prior to World War II.

The album's title track, providing a look back at 1960s-era television studio work, features the big band with heartfelt solo spots from trombonist Pete Anderson, flutist Mike Cemprola and trumpeter Taylor Barnett. The other number by Trinh's big band, "Signs Are Full of Jive, features singer/pianist Adrian Duke in a gentle but swinging romp.

Creative outflows include "I Can't Believe I'm Addicted to the O.C. and "I Tried to Talk to Her, But She Thought I Was Too Weird, which both pursue higher improvisational goals. The latter, a pronounced journey toward jazz's leading edge, features tenor saxophonist J.C. Kuhl, bassist Jonathan Cannon and drummer Brian Jones, along with Daniel Clarke at the Wurlitzer. Together, they move forcefully in the direction that jazz is inclined to pursue. It's all about creativity, adventure and craftsmanship with feeling—along with the necessary tools to make the music sound good.

Comments