Put your paws on this disc & happily wag your ears
Rick Erben | Omaha, NE | 02/06/2010
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Well-arranged jazz orchestras featuring strong soloists are a sonically rich element of the jazz pallet. Composer and arranger Phil Kelly, who has previously arranged for the Tonight Show band, offers a litter of solid original compositions (except for Limehouse Blues) in this highly satisfying follow-up to his Grammy nominated Origin Records release "Convergence Zone".
Kelly's arrangements are tight and swing with a sophisticated flair through the musical embellishments of the fine group on this outing. Among the veterans performing here are Jay Thomas - trumpet, Jerry Dodgion - alto saxophone, Pete Christlieb - tenor saxophone and Grant Geissman - guitar. The remainder of this twenty-three person band may be more well-known to audiences in the Pacific Northwest, however, it's evident they are all accomplished musicians and tuned into the conversation on each selection.
The title track, inspired by a photograph of the composer's two beagles, sets up an easy swinging pace, supported by percussionist John Bryant's congas, as framework for some relaxed yet soaring solo spots.
"Ewe Doo On Bubba's Shoux", inspired by New Orleans street-beat music, starts with an infectiously orchestrated vamp that serves as springboard for solos from saxist Christlieb, trumpeter Thomas and muted trombone from Dan Marcus. Drummer Hobbs sets up an insistent backbeat throughout. Although an exhilarating romp, Kelly's arrangements are never blaring and contain a beautiful balance in the horn voicings.
"Rainshadow" has an exotique feel in its soft, rhythmic harmonies that Kelly has summoned to capture the feel of the Olympic Mountain rainforest near which he resides.
"Note-o-Riot-ee" is a more complex piece, once again displaying the fine horn section arrangements and with interesting rhythmic twists and subtleties.
"B.D. Bunz" comes on with a sophisticated groove reminiscent of Cy Coleman's "Playboy's Theme" with seductive trumpet and lusty tenor saxophone solos.
"Estos Frijoles Causa Me Falta Pasar A Los Vientos" with its solid percussive and alternating beat is a Latin-infused rhythmic festival prompting strident and captivating statements from the wind instruments. This piece bears some resemblance, in extended form, to Johnny Richards' writing for Stan Kenton on the classic "Cuban Fire" album.
"Top Fuel Pete" is a burning tenor saxophone jam featuring Christlieb, Travis Ranney, Pete Brewer and Randy Lee who trade phrases and solo on this spirited and brilliantly orchestrated piece.
Ballet of the Bouncing Beagles is a marvelously realized big band effort. Its engaging compositions, superb arrangements and top-class musicianship provide a sensational spectrum of listening enjoyment through its cohesive harmonies, rhythmic appeal and excellent soloing.
"
Beagles Supreme!
Wesley Pfarner | 12/19/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Phil Kelly hits the jackpot on this album. His band is just great and his arranging is very appealing. The individual soloists perform as if they were auditioning
for the best of the best big bands. If you like band band jazz --- buy it!"
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1