Search - Bob Florence :: Whatever Bubbles Up

Superlative Big Band Jazz - One of the Best of '03

John Tapscott | Canada | 01/17/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Even at age 70, composer/arranger/pianist Bob Florence continues to challenge himself, his musicians, and his listeners. Without question Florence is one of jazz's top arrangers and while his music has always had been creative and unpredictable, these qualities are perhaps even more to the fore on "Whatever Bubbles Up." In fact, even long-time fans of big band jazz may need at least half-a dozen listens to absorb this superlative CD. But it is well worth the effort, as this music (recorded in 2002) rewards continued attention.As with Bob's previous CD ("Serendipity" 18) this one incorporates a guitarist (Larry Koonse) into the rhythm section. Overall, the rhythm section, completed by Florence on piano, bassist Trey Henry and drummer Dick Weller, has a loose, adventurous, sometimes unsettled feel which keeps listeners on their musical toes. Of course, this rhythm section can swing hard in a more conventional sense, as behind Jeff Driskill's tenor solo on the opening "Dukeisms" or softly, as on parts of "Kissin' Bug" and Florence's attractive "Q&A". In any case, this well recorded music definitely commands your attention at every turn.

All the Florence trademarks are on this CD, such as the hard-driving repeated riffs which work into the listener's mind, (the title tune and "Running With Scissors"), the quirky and memorable melodic lines, ("Running", "Nerve Endings"), the effective use of dynamics ("Kissin' Bug"), the superb sectional work (hear the trombones on "Chelsea Bridge" or the saxes on "Whatever Bubbles Up"), the shifting moods within a single piece (Q&A), and the impeccable ensemble playing throughout.This superb 74 minute CD (not 51 as indicated on the cover) bubbles over with creativity, advanced swing and high musicianship. Whenever Bob Florence releases a CD, it has to be considered one of the best jazz CD's of the year and so it is with "Whatever Bubbles Up." Strongly recommended to lovers of advanced big band jazz."