JOHN FEDCHOCK

JUSTIFIABLY J.J.

Summit Records

John Fedchock, trombone; Steve Allee, piano; Jeremy Allen, bass; Sean Dobbins, drums.

The International Trombone Journal praised John Fedchock as “a soloist, Fedchock’s playing is simply phenomenal.  Flawless technique, a melodic approach, and a warm, lush tone are trademarks of his improvisational style.” 

This tribute to the great J.J. Johnson showcases Fedchock’s mastery on the trombone, but also calls attention to the iconic compositions that J.J. Johnson gifted to the world.  The quartet opens with “Naptown U.S.A.” spotlighting Fedchock’s rapid delivery on the trombone.  J. J. Johnson composed it in 1956. On “Short Cake” Steve Allee on piano takes stage center during his improvised solo, until Fedchock takes the lead. This is John’s 11^th album release as a leader.  It is meant to celebrate J. J. Johnson’s centennial in 2024. Featuring eight swinging compositions by Johnson, or songs that were associated with J. J., Fedchock opted to perform the original Johnson arrangements in honor of the trombone legend.  The pretty ballad, “Lament” is another favorite of Fedchock’s and is perhaps J. J. Johnson’s most famous composition. This tune has been covered by many musicians, including Miles Davis.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zi-tr2rerSQ

Jeremy Allen opens “Lullaby of Jazzland” on bass, skipping along at a swinging, rapid pace. Fedchock shows off what the trombone can do as a lead instrument. This is the only tune that Johnson did not compose, but he was known to play it during shows.

When J. J. Johnson first came on the scene, few respected the trombone as an instrument that could play the speedy complexities of bebop music.  J. J. Johnson proved everyone wrong and re-introduced trombone into the jazz world at a featured instrument level.

When Fedchock and his all-star group agreed to play J. J. Johnson’s music in his hometown, he wasn’t even thinking about recording a tribute album.  You can hear the ‘live’ audience applauding in appreciation throughout this recording.  When the concert engineer asked him if he wanted a copy of the show, he agreed, never expecting it to be such high-quality.

Sean Dobbins opens the tune “Kenya” giving it a strong rhythmic feel during the percussive introduction, swooping into an Afro-Cuban arrangement. The band shines on the familiar jazz tune, “Say When” with the trombone flying through the notes.

Fedchock has played with the California State University of Long Beach Jazz Band under the direction of Jeff Jarvis.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UY-78Bopiu4

The high energy and audience support captured on this “Live” recording is exciting. John Fedchock offers a beautiful tribute to the music and memory of trombone master J. J. Johnson. It’s a tribute to the trombone, as well as the mastery of Fedchock himself.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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