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Review: Jackets XL, Yellowjackets + WDR Big Band
Jackets XL, Yellowjackets + WDR Big Band, featuring Dane Alderson on Bass.
Jazz fans and in particular Yellowjackets fans will really get a kick out of Yellowjackets + WDR Big Band. Take a solid quartet with over 30 albums to their name, back them up with a superb big band and the results are predictably excellent.
In the first track, “Downtown,” Dane lays down some serious electric bass with fast and furious walking lines and flawless soloing. The bass is augmented even more with a tight interaction with Will Kennedy’s impeccable drum work. The core of this project is completed with Bob Mintzer on Tenor sax and Russell Ferrante on keys, each of which seriously knocks it out of the park consistently. Track after track these guys are at the top of their game and the listener is the fortunate benefactor.
We are treated to ten tracks loaded with a diversified selection of rhythms and feels; from Funk to straight-up Jazz there is never a dull moment.
The fit between the quartet and the big band is seamless as if they had been playing together a lifetime.
The arrangements are intricate, dynamic, and are executed with great confidence and fullness. You simply have to love the sheer sonic punch and power you get from a really good big band.
The bass playing is a real treat throughout the entire album as they managed to keep Dane’s voice clear and present even with the awesome presence of a room full of musicians.
This album is simply a must hear!
Jackets XL, Yellowjackets + WDR Big Band is available at Amazon.com, where it is getting a solid five-star review