Album Notes

Bluesback Records recording artist Michael Dease is among the front wave of young jazz musicians dedicated to creating a personal and expressive "voice" while preserving the integrity of jazz music. Dease has toured the world as a performer, composer, arranger and educator receiving high praise from audiences and critics alike. His trombone playing speaks of many influences, weaving intricate, exciting lines towards pretty notes with an enchanting tone, and has been hailed by jazz legend Curtis Fuller as “absolutely amazing”. Dease has received the International Trombone Association’s Frank Rosolino Award, J.J. Johnson Prize and the Kai Winding jazz ensemble trophy. He was named a 2004 Yamaha Young Performing Artist, earned a Best Jazz Instrumentalist distinction from the June 2004 edition of DOWNBEAT magazine and received a 2007 ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award

- COURTESY OF EJAZZNEWS.COM

Seven Trombones, The Rhythm Section, And Some special guests make up this fine recording.

Rapid fire 'bones are everywhere, led by Marshall Gilkes on the opening track "Personal Trainer" I thought Scott Whitfield had the fastest horn in the land, but these cats give him a run for the money. Nice piano solo by Djuliarso.

"Wee Dot" JJ Johnson's classic is bop from the top...Everyone swings in this fine tribute to JJ.

"It's Alright With Me" Romping along with this gem is the drummer whose time is railroad perfect. The arrangement is solid and the solos are marvelous.

Everybody solos on this Slide Hampton tune ( Slide's Blues) and what a way to close out a very hip album. The message is clear, the tunes are great, the players are top notch and they know the meaning of 'takin' care of biz and gettin' it all'....The trades are superb and then some.

I appreciate the artistry, the whimsy, and above all, the pure jazz with no affectation. In other words, this is the real deal with the right feel. 5 Stars

-John Gilbert