Label: Next Level, 2023
Personnel - Drew Zaremba: saxophone, organ, composition, arrangements; Andrew Janak: saxophones; Jared Cathey: saxophones; Austin Cebulske: saxophones; Allison Young: saxophones; Jake Boldman: trumpet; Gabe Mervine: trumpet; Dawn Kramer: trumpet; Shawn Williams: trumpet; Wayne Bergeron: trumpet; Zach Rich: trombone; Paul Mckee: trombone; Seth Weaver: trombone, vocals; John Matthews: bass trombone; Steve Kovalcheck: electric guitar; Dana Landry: piano; Erik Applegate: upright and electric bass; Jim White: drum set; Brian Claxton: percussion; Marion Powers: vocals.
Drew Zaremba demonstrates his immense musical talent and eclecticism in a jubilant big band project featuring grand arrangements of well-known classical, jazz, and rock pieces, along with original compositions. Zaremba has honed his craft through composition and arrangement work for notable figures like Wycliff Gordon and Eddie Gomez, and by playing alongside his mentor John Clayton, who produced the album. He has also collaborated with Walt Weiskopf and the legendary Billy Harper.
The delightful clash of musical styles is palpable throughout the album, with the spectacular orchestration of "The Entertainer" serving as a prime example. Here, classical elements converge with the jazz vibes of New Orleans, resulting in dynamic rhythmic shifts, groove, and a sense of elasticity. The solos are concise and vibrant, as seen in the rendition of Pink Floyd's "Money", which features intricate meter changes, clever accents, ostinato bass patterns, and fluid percussion. Zaremba's exploration also delves into Latin influences, and Marion Powers' vocals inject a breezy jazz sensibility that elevates the song to a new dimension.
Written for trumpeter Wayne Bergeron, “You Ain’t the Blues” develops in a mellow tone, flowing viscously at a medium-slow tempo. This provides a sharp contrast to "Minute Waltz", a fiery 4/4 bop excursion reminiscent of Buddy Rich, which propels the soloists with infectious energy. Similarly contrasting in nature are the final tracks on the alum, “Together” and “Reunion in Greeley”. “Together”, sung by Marion Powers, is an emotional waltz written for Zaremba’s wife and son, while “Reunion in Greeley” brims with an irresistible verve and bluesy colors, elevated by trombone exchanges, spirited saxophone-trumpet interactions, and talkative drums.
“We Got This” exudes a funky fusion vibe, with adventurous guitar lines rising above the orchestral backdrop, while "Glenmere" is characterized by harmonic allure and a gentle rhythm that flirts with Brazilian bossa nova influences before building up with ostinato patterns and glissandi.
Despite the familiarity of some of the tunes, Zaremba pushes the boundaries of big band jazz through skillful arrangements. It's evident that the musicians accompanying him here are not only committed to group cohesion but also ready to shine when called upon to improvise. The result is a recording brimming with vitality and affirmation.
Favorite Tracks:
01 - The Entertainer ► 03 - Money ► 10 - Reunion in Greeley