John Lang; Earotica

New York bassist John Lang has put together a scintillating ensemble larger than a “combo” but smaller than a big band. It is in fact comprised of trumpet, trombone, alto sax, tenor sax, baritone sax, and of course a rhythm section including leader and bassist John Lang. All twelve tunes are originals and swing with resonating authority. And being that this group is as complete as it is, all players get generous opportunity to strut their stuff, solo-wise. There is a very “urban” contemporary feeling at work here. Now and then things get a tad more electric than my straight ahead veins can handle. Aside from that, this big-small band puts it all out there. I guess the term is muscular because these guys certainly work out!

Cellar Music; 2023; appx. 73 min.