Charles, Etienne
Culture Shock, 2024, CD
Instrument: Trumpet
Issue: 30.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Bebop
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 83
O’s Notes: Trinidad native, trumpeter, composer Etienne Charles is a true jazz steward. He assembles a large ensemble behind a rhythm section that includes Alex Wintz (g), Ben Williams (b), Sullivan Fortner (keyboards), and Obed Calvaire (d). There are plentiful solos from John Ellis (t-sax, b-cl), Michael Dease (tb), and many others. Highlights are the calypso beats of “Old School”, a spicy orchestral mix of “Poison”, and Rene Marie’s riveting version of “Centerpiece”. Charles places the Caribbean as a major influencer in the roots of big band jazz. With his Creole Orchestra, he makes a strong point!
Publicist: Terri Hinte
