Jazz
The show had an undercurrent that brought to the fore all the issues that have put Wynton Marsalis at the center of the culture wars.
By taking the stage with 15 musicians, none of whom is female, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra presents the music as segregated and outdated.
Perhaps the idea is for the listener to come up with their own ideal blend, sort of a mix and max approach regarding the strengths in each disc.
While perhaps not more than the sum of its parts — that would be hard to imagine — the music on this tribute disc has its own vitality and stands well on its own.
Singer Allan Harris clearly loves Eddie Jefferson’s music and performs it with sincerity and chops.
The music and performances on this delightful trio album are blithe and profound, a combination that should charm many listeners.
For my taste, some of the songs on Kurt Elling’s The Questions simply aren’t challenging or interesting enough.
A listener’s response to this album would largely depend on whether or not the sound of Jeff Denson’s voice and the instrumentation strike a chord.
Jazz Commentary: Greg Hopkins Big Band at Ryles — Whither Big Bands?
At this time in the Boston jazz scene, there are no ongoing spaces for big bands and, predictably, the number of such ensembles has shrunk.
Read More about Jazz Commentary: Greg Hopkins Big Band at Ryles — Whither Big Bands?