Outstanding!
John Tapscott | Canada | 03/12/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
""Groovin' to Marty Paich" was the inspired idea of Ken Poston, producer of the "Springville" jazz celebration in L.A. in '04, and Graham Carter, head of JazzedMedia records. The idea was to resurrect some of the classic small big-band charts Marty Paich wrote back in 1959 to feature star altoist Art Pepper. (Three albums resulted from the Paich/Pepper collaboration, including the famous "Art Pepper Plus Eleven" on Contemporary.) In 2004, 12 of these charts would be played by the 12 piece Los Angeles Jazz Orchestra, directed by pianist Christian Jacob, and featuring as main soloist the great alto saxophonist, Phil Woods.
Not only was the idea inspired, but the execution, as captured on this CD, was inspired as well. The band plays these swinging charts well, and many of the band's members, including pianist Jacob, trumpeter Steve Huffsteter, trombonist Scott Whitfield, tenorist Brian Scanlon, and vibist Brad Dutz have short but effective solos. Stephanie O'Keefe on French horn makes a memorable contribution to the the ensemble sound, especially on ballads like "'Round Midnight" and "Violets for Your Furs," which is arguably the CD's outstanding track. The swinging rhythm section of Jacob, bassist Chris Connor, and drummer Paul Kreibich, is excellent on every track.
But the main star here is Phil Woods. Perhaps it was the live setting, or Paich's great charts, or the chance to dig into his bebop roots, or the warm weather, but Phil certainly sounds inspired on this date. His swinging solos are exuberant and full of jazz joy. And naturally he is passionate and moving on ballads, especially on the aforementioned "Violets". On this track and throughout the CD, Phil asserts his place as the reigning master of the alto saxophone. It is hard to imagine any soloist on any instrument soloing more effectively than Phil does here. Just listen to his bluesy solo in "Moanin.' And after warming up on the head Phil plays a wailing clarinet solo on "Anthropology."
Perfectionists may note some of the minor flaws that seem inevitable on live recordings, but this CD is a wonderful example of jazz that is at once organized yet maintains a swinging and spontaneous feeling.
"Groovin' to Marty Paich" is a most enjoyable CD and must be considered one of the early contenders for jazz album of the year in 2005. This outstanding CD is highly recommended."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1