George's Briefs: David Caffey Jazz Orchestra "All In One"

This Colorado based aggregation brings us eight David Caffey originals loaded with superb solo work and invigorating arrangements. The sound draws from bands as disparate as Rob McConnell (fun, spirited, cooking) to Thad Jones-Mel Lewis (challenging charts, a sense of daring, versatility). The tunes have distinct melody lines, and believe it or not, sound like real "songs"! Imagine that! This sort of band is becoming rare, but thanks to people like David Caffey for staying with his muse.

Artist Alliance Records; 2018; appx. 65 min. 

George's Briefs: Jim Porcella "Dream Dancing With You"

Here's a hip singer who phrases, scats, sings spot-on-key and chooses great material. In addition to that he welcomes to this session such heavyweights as Mike Renzi, piano; Harry Allen, tenor sax; Bob Cranshaw, bass, and Buddy Williams, drums. Porcella is impressive on "Dream Dancing", "It Don't Mean A Thing", "My Romance", "Here's To Life", "I Remember You", and more. He's got the chops and the feelings. Give him a shot!

Self-produced; 2018; times not indicated.