Big Band Basie

Performer: Clark Terry/Frank Wess/Count Basie/Depaul University Jazz Ensemble
Producer: J. Tamblyn Henderson, Jr.
Distributor: Allegro Corporation (Dist

Notes: Personnel includes: Clark Terry; Frank Wess (tenor saxophone, flute); Bob Lark (conductor, flugelhorn); Tim McNamara (tenor saxophone); Michael Stryker (piano); Jason Cates, DePaul University Jazz Ensemble I. All tracks have been digitally mastered using HDCD technology. Usually recordings by college stage bands are to be avoided by all but close relatives since the illusion of professionalism heard in the well-rehearsed ensembles is constantly punctured by amateurish solos. However this CD features flugelhornist Clark Terry and Frank Wess (doubling on flute and tenor) on half of the selections and the orchestra (under the direction of Bob Lark) is fairly strong. The big band interprets a dozen songs from the Count Basie repertoire (plus "Winter Wonderland") with solid swing and good musicianship. Still, it is the numbers with Terry and Wess that are of greatest interest and the real reason to acquire this set. ~ Scott Yanow

Down Beat (10/95, p.60) - 4 Stars - Very Good - "...Forget this is a university band; it makes no difference. Any fan of the Basie New Testament years will find this a great pleasure..." JazzTimes (5/96, p.122) - "The pros sit in with the students, directed by Bob Lark and the results are frequently excellent....Wess' tenor is warm and smooth, his flute perky and bluesy. Terry's usual good humor and cascading musical bounty come through again and again..."

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