Search - Jack Walrath :: In Montana

Spirited recording of original compositions by Mingus protége combines the best of hard-bop drive with contemporary harmonic innovations Labor Records is pleased to announce the re-release of Jack Walrath's "In Montana," a fresh testament to the compatibility of tradition and innovation in jazz which was recorded at three different sessions in Montana in January, April and March of 1980. There are thirteen original compositions on the recording, created by Walrath and his cohorts. While firmly set in the tradition of swing-based rhythms and be-bop influenced improvisations, Walrath and his sidemen nevertheless incorporate many of the significant stylistic innovations stemming from modern, modal, free and out jazz, thus giving this recording a passionate and somewhat unpredictable edge while remaining completely accessible - a winning combination that is hard to find in most contemporary jazz recordings.
Trumpeter Walrath, who has performed with Charles Mingus and Ray Charles, is joined by Ornette Coleman-influenced pianist Bob Nell, saxophonist Chuck Florence, bassist Kelly Roberty and drummer/percussionist Jim Honaker. Why jazz "In Montana"? Is there a particular Montana flavor? Perhaps there is. The listener will hear a highly-refined sense of space and a looseness which seems to reflect an unconventional attitude towards life as well as the expansive geography of the territory. Unconfined by the tension and stress of the urban environment, these talented musicians play and feel jazz on the level of the best.