Customer Reviews

On the Town

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

On January 29, 2000 KCSM, the bay area's 24hr jazz station, had Phil's band invited for their listener party at he college of San Mateo Auditorium. I had never heard of the band nor I knew anything about Phil and his jazz history, but boy this 10 musicians were serious about what they were about to deliver. The brass section was crystal clear and the solos were dynamic and intricate enough to make anybody be able to tap along. The reed section was just as synchronized and articulate as any of the great bands of the 40's and 50's. The rhythm section kept the pace just the way The Count's band knew how. If you like the sounds of the big band era you will enjoy this music in its entirety.

I have not heard the CD yet but I heard the group in person in July,'99. Very, very impressive. The resumes of the players are solid, as are the arrangements. I have been a Big Band fan since the mid-50's, and Phil Norman pays homage to those roots and brings a ton of new creative stuff to the table. If you like Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, et al, you will be amazed at how this group can create such a huge sound with ten players. A pocket-sized big band with a lot of talent and some interesting ideas. I'll buy anything they record.

There are only 3 reeds and 3 brass in this l0-piece band. Yet the arrangements and voicings contribute to a wonderful swinging sound. This CD has a variety of standards, all played with good taste and marvelous musicianship.