Solal, Martial
Dreyfus, 2000, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 7.2
Jazz Ruler Type: Swing
Performance: 4
Sound: 5
Score: 
O’s Notes: Martial’s 12-piece band takes on five of Ellington’s most popular works along with a medley that touches eight more. The arrangements use the Duke’s work as a theme but allow for ample improvisation. It’s not fee jazz but it is very creative. The band members don’t obstruct each other which allows listeners to easily focus on the harmony and timbre of one to five instruments at a time while harnessing the power of 9 horns to drive home accents where appropriate.
