Album DescriptionFormer Freddie Hubbard sideman, Trombonist Phil Ranelin, passionately explores the compositions of Jazz masters Hubbard, Miles Davis, J.J. Johnson and Joe Henderson. Ranelin also demonstrates his own value as a very sensitive and exciting soloist, composer and arranger. By combining the art form of the Jazz Ensemble with special arrangements for the five-piece trombone choir, Ranelin has produced a unique collector's item for music lovers worldwide. As a consummate producer, Ranelin has successfully brought together some of the most exciting musicians the Jazz world has to offer. A Close Encounter Of The Very Best Kind (LifeForce 1996) showcases the talents of Trombonist, Composer and Arranger, Phil Ranelin and features the members of The Phil Ranelin Jazz Ensemble George E. Harper, Jr. - Saxophone
Jeff Babko - Piano
Tony Dumas - Acoustic Bass
Ralph Penland - Trap Drums
Taumbu - Congas
Additional Personnel on the CD are Eric Reed - Piano, Larry Koonse - Guitar, Tony Lujan - Trumpet, and the Trombone Choir - George Bohanon, Garnett Brown, Thurman Green, Maurice Spears and Steve Turre.