Description
Basically Baker is a classic example of what can happen when you unify the saxophone, trumpet, trombone and rhythm sections of a big band and add a tuba to the ensemble, a distinct departure from earlier arranging techniques utilized by old-school bandleaders, such as Fletcher Henderson and Don Redman, back in 1930’s and the swing era. Baker’s more modern approach opens new dimensions in the music, creating new timbral textures and inspiring improvisers to explore more complex ideas. “I don’t think it was necessarily innovative on my part,” David said, recalling his emergence as a jazz arranger and composer in the 1950’s. “It was more a part of the zeitgeist, of what was happening at the time.”
”"Basically Baker, released by the Buselli/Wallarab Jazz Orchestra (on GM Recordings), not only stands as one of the best discs of the year but attests to Baker's stature as a jazz composer. Moreover, its release in the autumn of Baker's life points to the mercurial nature of his unorthodox career."
— Chicago Tribune
PERFORMERS
Buselli/Wallarab Jazz Orchestra
SAXOPHONES: Tom Meyer, lead alto; Tom Walsh, alto; Mike Stricklin, tenor;
Rob Dixon, tenor; Ned Boyd, baritone TRUMPETS: Joe Tartell (lead), Jeff Conrad, Mark Buselli, Mike Hackett, Pat Harbison TROMBONES: Loy Hetrick (lead), Brent Wallarab, Chuck Flowers, Rich Dole FRENCH HORN: Celeste Holler-Seraphinoff TUBA: Tony Kniffen PIANO: Luke Gillespie BASS: Jack Helsey DRUMS: Bryson Kern GUITAR: Peter Kienle (Dance of the Jitterbugs only) CONDUCTOR: Brent Wallarab
PROGRAM
1. The I.U. Swing Machine 7:52
2. Dance of the Jitterbugs 9:45
3. April B 6:50
4. 5M Calypso 7:52
5. An Evening Thought 10:40
6. To Dizzy with Love 6:50
7. Some Links for Brother Ted 7:55
8. Screamin’ Meemies 7:50
All compositions and arrangements by David Baker
Recorded Sept 4-5, 2004 at Echo Park Studios, Bloomington, IN
Produced by David Baker
Executive Producer: Gunther Schuller
ALSO AVAILABLE
for downloads and streaming on Amazon as well as other digital sites.
