Stepping Out Wonderfully Once More
The greatest crooner of this modern era, Kurt Elling keeps his vocal firmly in its lineage with a big band anchorage. Stating this, there are interesting claims for the innovation of this to consider,
'a bold meeting of voice and orchestra, tradition and innovation, craft and imagination. It is big, expressive jazz — made for listening closely and feeling deeply' (Bandcamp)
I've no particular complaint here - nothing to single out - just feel it is a bit tautologous: there is clear tradition in the big band accompanyment, a driving force, and Elling's scatting/vocalese is signature but hardly innovative. It is certainly brilliant. There is a peak coalescence of band and voice as third track My Very Own Ride progresses, and if I call this old-school I am not diminishing its freshness and vibrant impact.
The set begins with the wonderful Joe Jackson's Steppin' Out (a reprieve performance from Elling's past recording catalogue) scatting and orchestral mirroring quite simply superb, as is the Bob Mintzer saxophone solo.
Further details and to purchase here
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