Search - Gordon Goodwin :: Swingin for the Fences

Swingin' For The Fences: Big Band For The 21st Century

Giovanni C. Washington-Wright | Dallas, TX United States | 05/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you're a big band fan and own a DVD player, this DVD is an absolute must! This DVD features the comical and brilliant writing of L.A. composer/saxist Gordon Goodwin. This DVD also features the flawless work of some of L.A.'s top echelon studio musicians -- including Dan Higgins, Alex Iles, Andy Martin, Bill Reichenbach, Jerry Hey, Gary Grant, Dennis Farias, and Wayne Bergeron -- to name a few. Perhaps what makes the DVD most intriguing is the 6-channel surround sound format in which it's recorded -- absolutely incredible! -- Every nuance of the playing can be heard and the playing IS pristine. Mr. Goodwin also brings aboard burnin' soloists -- like Eddie Daniels, Arturo Sandoval, Brandon Fields, and Eric Marienthal -- to make it all complete.I knew about this project about six months before its arrival, and I waited frantically for it to be released. This DVD has lived up to my expectations and WAY beyond! There has NOT been a better project done within the past decade. Thank you Mr. Goodwin and company."

BURNIN'

Giovanni C. Washington-Wright | Dallas, TX United States | 02/12/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Burnin'... absolutely burnin'! This band is the real deal. They play these difficult tunes with incredible precision. The pitch, balance, and blend are all immaculate from start to finish. You simply can't miss with this group of L.A. all-stars: Jerry Hey, Gary Grant, Dennis Farias, Wayne Bergeron, Alex Iles, Andy Martin, Bill Reichenbach, Dan Higgins, Bill Liston, and, of course, Gordon Goodwin... just to name a few. The solos are also burnin' all around. Definitely the most compelling big band record I've heard in the past 10 years. Great charts, personnel, and recording technology. This CD is a MUST HAVE for all serious big band fans. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!"

Phat Band is Phat-tastic!!!!

jaba | 03/02/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album is hands down the most fun, exciting, and inspiring big band CD I've listened to in a long long time - in fact let's just say CD of any type period - not just big band. I don't remember when I've had some many "smiles" "goosebumps" and "ooh ahhs" from the very first listen. And I don't remember when one CD has held my attention from cut to cut as this one has. The writing is phenomenal - just brilliant . . . the playing is technically awesome while yet inspired and passionate . . . anything but sterile. You can tell for the players this was not just another gig. Gordon Goodwin assembled an "A list" team of the best of the best and lit a fire under them like no other. And oh does it show! And as if this wasn't enough, the audio recording quality, presence, and mix is hands down the best for a big band I've heard. I've played in many big bands and I feel like I'm sitting right there in the section. Ten stars for this CD!! (I understand there's a 5.1 DVD audio version of this - can't imagine how good that must sound with a six channel system!)"