The Herrold-Gordon Small Band: Think Big CD Track Listing
The Herrold-Gordon Small Band
Think Big
Most of Ann Arbor's successful jazz combos thrive on regular weekly gigs at local clubs. Supported by a loyal following, they take full advantage of the opportunity to work out new arrangements and clean up old ones in front of a friendly audience. It is therefore no mean feat that the Herrold/Gordon Small Band has managed to survive and thrive for three years without such a regular place to play. Instead, mainly because of the perseverance of its leaders, the group has been featured at festivals and clubs all over Southeastern Michigan and beyond. \n\nThe quintet is codirected by bassist Edie Herrold and guitarist Neil Gordon, who provide most of the original compositions and tight arrangements of standards that make up most of their repertoire. Indeed, this is very much an arranger's band, and although all the members are excellent improvisers, the pens of the two leaders dominate the group identity. \n\nThe stylistic center of the band is modern jazz, but the arrangers bring multiple influences into the mix. They appear to thrive on variety. Each tune they play seems to have a slightly different rhythm, and their sets are assembled with a sense of pacing and drama. A funky tune might be followed by bossa nova or by a shuffle number, and sometimes the beat will change within a tune. The lack of a piano assures a light flavor and allows for the prominence of the bass and guitar work of both leaders. Although there are only five musicians on stage, the clever arrangements sometimes give the illusion of a larger ensemble.\n\nHerrold and Gordon have surrounded themselves with some of the best musicians in the area. Paul Finkbeiner's trumpet and flugelhorn are regularly featured in the Bird of Paradise Orchestra, in the Paul Keller Ensemble, and in many other groups. He is a dramatic melodic soloist whose swing and bravado add spice to any group, and who manages to retain a strong personal style while serving the overall purposes of an ensemble. The versatile Mark Kieme joins him in the front line on a variety of saxophones and woodwinds. Kieme, who is one of the busiest session men in our area, steps out here to solo with fire and taste. The drummer is David Taylor, who blends well with his colleagues, driving them when necessary, but never overpowering the band.\n\nThe quintet has just released its first compact disk, The Herrold/Gordon Small Band, Think Big\n
This jazz cd contains 12 tracks and runs 74min 27sec.
Freedb: 9d11710c
Category
: Music
Tags
: music songs tracks jazz
- The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Stroll on By (05:28)
E. Herrold - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Sway (07:12)
N. Gordon - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Breathing Room (05:49)
E. Herrold - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - If You Show Me Yours (05:01)
N. Gordon - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - You Gotta Be Kidding (04:42)
E. Herrold - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - When You Put It Like That (06:23)
N. Gordon - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Five Before Three (05:37)
E. Herrold - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - The Years to Come (06:17)
N. Gordon - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Early Summer (06:44)
E. Herrold - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Sidestep (06:20)
N. Gordon - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Gotta Do It! (05:18)
E. Herrold - The Herrold-Gordon Small Band - Next Stop: Home (09:28)
N. Gordon
