Pete Ellman Big Band: For Pete’s Ache

Modern paint is spread on classic works of art by Pete Ellman and his Big Band. This is an orchestra that emphasizes big and full charts, with soloing fitting in, but not dominating the even. The is a relaxed “When Lights Are Low” with a large bel canto horn section, with some nice piano and trumpet work on a pulsating “It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)”. A medley of “Manteca/Take the ‘A’ Train” is a fantastically clever juxtaposition, and the Afro Cuban “Livin’ Larger Than Life” sizzles into a deep groove. The title track is a double breasted suit custom made for a 50s B movie, and the horns are scintillating on “Dos Cinco Juan”. Lots of fun and festivities.

www.pebb.net

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