MIKE DANA JAZZ ORCHESTRA

FARTHER (STILL)

Origin Records

Along with the able assistance of some stellar jazz players, Mike Dana unveils a new musical vision. The album is called “Farther (Still).” Opening with a song he titles “Mi Respuesta,” (that translates to “my answer” or “my response”), his orchestra project begins. This song is an Afro-Cuban contrafact, based on the chords of a well-known jazz standard. Dana has developed it into a brand-new song, featuring  his own unique melody. The bass of Ron Suffredini is prominent at the introduction of this tune and sets the mood. Played in 7/4 rhythm, it features the trumpet of Aaron Janik and the bright energetic congas of Brian Kilgore. Alan Ferer offers a spirited trombone solo. I enjoy this playful arrangement, with punchy horn lines that pump harmonic excitement to spur the guest soloists. This is a wonderful way to begin Mike Dana’s album.

Track #2 is a ballad titled, “Elysian Shore.” It features the lyricism and passion of Ingrid Jensen on trumpet.  She takes the three-note motif of this tune and beautifully expands on it. The orchestrated arrangement works its way into a slow swing, with Ingrid given freedom to explore her own exciting improvisations.

After many years honing his talents as a guitarist, an educator, and one of the West Coast’s most respected composers and arrangers, Mike Dana is truly excited about this new production.

“This recording represents the work of many years of composing, collaborating, learning and growing.  More than anything, it is a celebration of the remarkable musicians, mentors and friends who have shaped my musical journey. For a composer, there is no greater privilege than hearing new music brought to life by musicians of this caliber,” Mike writes in his liner notes.

Dana has written seven out of the nine songs on this album.  Each tune is beautifully arranged. The title tune is a jazz waltz that sounds quite bluesy. It quickly becomes another favorite of mine. Special guest Tim Ries soars on soprano saxophone. Dana’s original composition was written in tribute to his good friend, the late Paul Shaghoian, a gifted trumpeter and educator. Dana was glad to include his guest, Tim Ries, who was also a former friend of Paul’s.

On “It’s Just a Phase” composed by Dana using a seven measure bass line he superimposed over eight bar phrases. The odd meters feature solos by Bob Mintzer and Alan Ferber.

The Mike Dana Jazz Orchestra is a rich creative experience that highlights a host of excellent players, well-written compositions and striking arrangements by Dana. This is music I will enjoy listening to over-and-over again.

THE MAKE DANA ORCHESTRA: RHYTHM SECTION: Mike Dana, guitar/bandleader; George Stone, piano; Ron Suffredini, bass; Dave Tull, drums; Brian Kilgore, percussion. WOODWINDS: David Becker & Ron McCarley, alto & tenor saxophones/flute/clarinet; Michael Mull, baritone sax/clarinet/bass clarinet; Jessica Hoffman, oboe; Lisa Nauful, bassoon. TRUMPETS: Wayne Bergeron & Daniel Rosenboom; TROMBONES: Alex Lles, Alan Ferber & Joe Turgeon, bass trombone. SPECIAL GUESTS: Ingrid Jensen & Aaron Janik, trumpet; Eric Marienthal, alto saxophone; Bob Mintzer, tenor saxophone; Tim Ries, soprano & tenor saxophone.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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