Search - The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra :: Monday Night Live At The Village Vanguard

Keeping Thad & Mel's tradition alive... but making 20th cent

Henry S. Brent | Marietta, GA USA | 02/25/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album won the 2009 Grammy for Best Large Jazz Ensemble. If you've ever seen them at The Vanguard-- one of the world's greatest clubs to hear music-- as I have numerous times, it is a miracle that the band can even fit on the stage-- but the intimacy and the power of the overwhelming sound of the ensemble is what allows the audience to really connect. There are a number of Thad compositions on this 2-CD set:

Disc: 1

1. Mean What You Say

2. Say It Softly

5. Mornin' Reverend



Disc: 2

4. Kids Are Pretty People

5. The Waltz You Swang for Me

6. Little Rascal on a Rock



There are outstanding solos and real tightness in the group. Highly recommended if you are a lover of modern big band ... or if this is your first exposure to the power and purity of a big modern ensemble. Enjoy!

"