The pen of one of bebops forgotten great composers, Tadd Dameron, is celebrated on two separate discs released by Madd for Tadd, co-led by Kent Engelhardt and Stephen Enos. The result is a fun celebration of an artist that deserves greater recognition and appreciation.
Kent Engelhardt’s “Central Avenue Swing” brings in a bit of original material for clever yet concise charts for solos by Brad Goode/tp on “Dameron Stomp” and “Society Steps Out” and Dig It featuring the warm voice of “Erin Keckan. The other disc, “Our Delight” band does wonders with the famous “Lady Bird” with Kent Engelhardt’s bopping alto, which is also featured on a rich take of “Soultrane”. “Mating Call” features Micheal Dease’s bright trombone, and the anthem “The Squirrel” gives drummer Jim Rupp a chance to drop a few bombs. The encouraging thing about this session is that the sounds and colors are much improved from the original recordings, giving an extra depth and dimension. Get these gents on the road!