Search - Gioachino Rossini, Felix [1] Mendelssohn, Johann Sebastian Bach :: Four of a Kind, Vol. 2: Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Another Great Trombone CD from the 4 of a Kind Guys

Arthur B. Cramer | Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada | 01/06/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I purchased the first 4 of a Kind CD shortly after it came out in 92. At the time there weren't many "Classical" Trombone CDs (well ok I admit it, I bought it on Cassette Tape), and the release of this item was a real find for me. I loved the tape. It was just great to hear what a trombone could sound like in the hands of a master.As an amateur trombonist of more than 30 years, it has been very tough to develop as a player as there aren't many audio resources available to help you with things like sound and approach. At the time of the casette's release, the cassette was a real find, and I was happy to add it to my collection of trombone playing resources.Well, it is almost 11 years later, and I am very happy to add this second great CD to my collection now. As a student and a listener, there is so much "to get out" of this CD. From a technical standpoint, the balance of playing, overall musicality of every recorded number, and the many styles presented is a wonderful resource to help you learn to play this great instrument. Of especially significant note is the absolutely beautiful sounds that can be heard, the balance between each and every part, and the perfect tuning of this ensemble (at least to this listener's ears). Things just ring in the high range, and "rattle and roll" down low. Listen for some just great Blair Bollinger Bass Trombone on this CD throughout. The playing and blend is gourgeous, and it is easy to see why these very fine players are so admired.From a pure listener's standpoint, this album is fun listening and a musical joy to the ear. From the first track to last, this CD is full of musical gems, plenty of good musical ideas, and imaginative and very inspired music making. What becomes clear quickly as you listen is just how obviously much these guys like playing together, and the fun they are having. It comes out over and over again in every number.There isn't a single clinker on this CD, or anyting that is disappointing or below standard in any way. The "Barber of Seville" is espcially good fun; I could see Elmer and Bugs in my mind as I listened to it (as an aside, if you haven't seen that famous Warner Brothers Cartoon featuring The Barber of Seville excerpts, try to find it, ooh, wait till I get that Wabbit!). On the other hand, I must also profess a real love for baseball, and the tune "Take me Out to The Ball Game". I just loved the arrangement, and the ensemble playing. It was just great. Including the "Crack of the Bat" and fan noise close to the end of the track just tops things off.I really think these wonderful musicians have produced a truly great CD that obviously was put together with the listener in mind. From a techncial recording standpoint, you don't need to adjust the volume any time while listening to the CD, and the quality of the recording and editing of every tune is just great. Consequently, this CD simply flows by from beginning to end. You will want to play it again and again. Personally, I very much recommend this CD to Student, Teacher, and music afficinado alike. This is a great CD that will make just a super addition to your musical library, regardless of the reason why you may have bought it!"

A real gem for all trombone and brass enthusiasts

Posaunen | North Carolina, USA | 05/17/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is another superb performance by Alessi, Hartman, Lawrence and Bollinger. These players are extremely gifted musicians. The musicality and technical prowess of these players is first rate. They play beautifully as an ensemble and the entire disc is very enjoyable. This should be required listening for all aspiring trombonists and brass enthusiasts."