Customer Reviews

A Jazz Celebration (CD / DVD combo pack)

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This is less a jazz celebration than a unique family affair, with the prolific Ellis accounting for five of the six members of the ensemble (I haven't heard yet of a young Marsalis bass player in the wings--perhaps papa ran out of gas). It's a solid, carefully programmed, even tight performance by all hands, ranging from an Art Blakey-like ensemble on "Swinging at the Haven" to Ellis' pleasant piano trio on "Surrey" to a Dixieland-style "Struttin'." Harry Connick's contribution is minimal and somewhat disappointing, limited to a predictable "St. James Infirmary" performed in the company of his own musicians.

Ellis has always been an effective and laconic if somewhat stiff and guarded player. Wynton and Branford are predictably solid. As a result, the surprises and much of the fire on this occasion are supplied by Delfeayo, who captures the technique and spirit of J. J. Johnson better than any trombonist who comes to mind.

In sum, a recording unlikely to receive repeated playings. One wishes the clan had either loosened things up or continued to play mainstream boppish arrangements like the opening number.