Vanguard Jazz Orchestra
Planet Arts, 2002, CD
Instrument: Instrumental
Issue: 8.3w
Jazz Ruler Type: BigBand
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 
O’s Notes: Born in 1966 as the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, VJO, now 16 members, extends on the original formula with a fresh venue for today and promising vitality into tomorrow. Their sound is full, rich with harmony and very energetic. Each piece generally culminates with a dynamic climax. Always featuring work from a variety of arrangers/writers this continues with Bob Mintzer’s “Antigua”, “ESP” arranged by VJO alumnus, Ed Neumeister, the electrifying “Bachafillen” and “A Simple Wish” by the late Julie Cavadini for whom this CD is dedicated.