Trombonist Marshall Gilkes focuses on the pretty, classy and glassy side of the big band on these charts and compositions from his pen. Except for autumnal “My Shining Hour” (which features the leader on a warm solo), the material is all Gilkes’, and it weaves together like a rich Quaker quilt. A meditative collection of horns makes for a warm “Vesper” which suits well with John Mashall’s buttery flugelhorn and Frank Chastenier’s piano. A couple of tunes, “Edenderry” and “End In Sight” are introduced by almost Renaissance-like brass that calls a subdued procession before the actual themes come into place; the former includes a rich and bluesy bass by John Goldsby that bounces with aplomb and the latter pairs flowing saxes by Karolina Strassmeyer/as and Paul Heller/ts which weave through the velvety layers. Gilkes saves the most energetic for last, but even “Downtime” emphasizes subtle harmonies over extroverted shouts; this is an album of dreamy reflections, which has a charm and allure all its own.
Alternate Side Records