Album Notes

The DCJB's third album contains 13 tracks of big band music, including three original arrangements and three vocal selections.

The inclusion of material written specifically for the DCJB is a major milestone for the group. One original arrangement is the title track, "Sermonette," arranged by pianist Norman Grant. This classic "Cannonball" Adderley tune, with lyrics by Jon Hendricks, is featured with DCJB sax player Don Daniel on vocals. Also included is Grant's arrangement of "Glory Hallelujah," as well as a setting of the contemporary Christian song "Via Dolorosa" by former DCJB drummer Steve Hall.

The addition of vocals is another important development for the group. "He Keeps Me Singing" features the vocal stylings of Dallas jazz artist Breggett Rideau, who recently recorded her own CD with some of the area's top musicians. Other tracks on the CD include classic hymns, gospel songs and other Christian material arranged for big band by various writers.

The CD is dedicated to former DCJB member Tommy Loy, a longtime Dallas musician famous for playing the national anthem at Dallas Cowboys games, who participated in the early sessions for Sermonette.

The Dallas Christian Jazz Band is a nondenominational big band consisting of both professional and amatuer musicians. The group maintains an active schedule of performances throughout the Dallas area, playing for churches and other groups.