Powerful arrangements of familiar tunes that combine intricate ensemble work, unrestricted blowing and Bazen's unique take on the standards.

11 MP3 Songs
JAZZ: Big Band, JAZZ: Bebop



Details:
An enterprising endeavor by another of the many uncelebrated bands that continue somehow to survive in today's exceedingly hostile musical climate, is enhanced by Bazen's remarkable musicianship, in particular his quirky arrangements of two well known traditional songs, "Danny Boy" and "The Little Drummer Boy," which he transmutes into thoroughly charming conveyances for his well-drilled contemporary ensemble.

Bazen, who plays a number of woodwinds, wrote and arranged the shuffling cooker, "Stranger Things," and the laid back blues, "Chillin'," and expertly charted "There Is No Greater Love" and the title selection, whose composer, Debbie Macfarlan, doubles as vocalist.

Yet another unequivocal indication of the enormous reservoir of musical talent that lies largely untapped and unappreciated in almost every decent-sized metropolitan area in this country.

Listen for yourself.

-Jack Bowers Cadence, November 1997