|
|
|
|
"Detroit"
Detroit is a
new composition by Los Angeles resident Gerald Wilson and his fourth
release on Mack Avenue Records. This multiple part suite was written
for a big band ensemble and was commissioned by the Detroit
International Jazz Festival. Detroit was recorded by Wilson’s New York
and Los Angeles big bands.
Wilson’s
memories of Detroit differ from the current state of the city. Wilson
spent his high school days there studying music. For Wilson, Detroit
was a city of progressive social politics, integrated schools and
regional and national jazz bands.
“Blues on the
Belle Isle” is the opening section of this release. This bluesy up
tempo tune uses dexterously voiced ensemble harmonies and features an
agile violin solo before ending on a dissonant chord. “Blues on the
Belle Isle” is followed by “Cass Tech,” which shares a similar harmony
to the Benny Golson tune “Along Came Betty”. The title track of the
release begins with a flute playing against lush ensemble horn voicings
and a mournful melody. “Before Motown” provides some needed contrast by
switching to a Latin feel with some soaring trumpet work. “Aram” is the
final movement of Detroit. This capstone movement is a jaunting waltz
that fades out with a saxophone solo.
Detroit stays
solidly within the tradition of big band writing and avoids musically
pushing the envelope. However, Wilson excels in this style and has
managed a fitting tribute to the city. This release is an ideal
choice for lovers of big band music and America’s Motor City.
-Jarvis Raymond
|
