Composers like Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin. Richard Rodgers and Harold Arlen collectively created what we now refer to as the Great American Song-book. They wrote music that so profoundly resonated with the public that it was the soundtrack for the lives of people all across the country and in some cases, around the globe.
In this pantheon of great writers, Arlen is unique. He and Gershwin were far moere influenced by jazz than their compatriots. But Aelen's melodies often had a more bluesy, melancholic feeling to them, even in the uptempo numbers. And his ethereal harmonies seem to come from some other world. His compositions are singular and follow their own distinct inner logic. And yet his songs are popular songs -hit songs- with memorable melodies that want to be sung and swung.
Our quartet tries to honor the original melodies and structure of these song while offering our own interpretations. As always, our masterful rhythm players -bassist Putter Smith and drummer Jimmy Wormworth- imbue every note with a swing that is at once driving, joyful, and full of mistery. Jorge Rossy proves again that he has truly found his voice on the vibraphone. He digs into these songs with abandon and delight, constantly finding new melodies and directions.
The group maintains a strong connection to the jazz tradition that still allows each member to express his own identity fully. Of course, this IS tradition of jazz for players to swing together, cach with their own voice.
Michael Kanan
1 It's Only A Paper Moon 6:12
2 I'll Wind 6:23
3 Let's Fall In Love 4:53
4 I've Got The World On A String 5:15
5 Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive 4:42
6 Come Rain Or Come Shine 6:40
7 If I Only Had A Brain 5:03
8 The Man That Got Away 8:43
9 Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead 4:49
