When you think of jazz and violin, you usually have images of Stephane Grappelli or Stuff Smith, but the Quartet San Francisco is trying to change that a bit. Consisting of Jeremy Cohen/v, Matthew Szemela/v, Chad Kaltinger/vla and Kelley Maulbetsch/cel, they take material composed by some of the best jazz writers (Gordon Goodwin and Vince Mendoza) that was written specifically for a violin quartet.
Impressive material like the three part “California Pictures…” by Goodwin has a swinging “Oakland,” an thoughtful “Carmel” and a bopping “Venice” while Mendoza’s “Funky Diversions” includes a folksy “Towner” and a “Maurice White” that gives allusions to Aaron Copland. Goodwin’s “Focus” has a nice rumba to it, while violinist Jeremy Cohen contributes an edgy and rhythmic “Guamba” that has wonderful textures. Rich harmonies and enjoyable rhythms will fill your ears and brain on this one.
ViolinJazz Recordings