This is such a superlative album - the songs are classic, the musicianship is amazing - it really is a special collection of music.
The story of this album is this: Kenn Lisle, a World War II army band veteran, suggested that I consider doing a collection of songs from that era. The idea immediately rang loud and true. Not only is the music great music, but it really lends itself to saxophonic renditions. And even though times were tough then, the music is generally very upbeat and optimistic.
The musicians on this CD are incredible. The pianist,
Red Young, is truly a musical genius, an amazing musician and remarkable soloist. You've heard the bassist,
Mike Valerio, many times without knowing it; he's performed in about 200 movie soundtracks in the last few years, a very busy guy in LA, a remarkable technician in the studio. And, of course, my good friend
Doug Mathews is on drums, a one-take wizard who I can never say enough about, and who constantly amazes me with his talent.
So here is a wonderful collection of great standards, songs that have become part of the fabric of our society over time, songs that you may not know the name of, but that you will probably recognize. Lots of sax section work, plenty of that big band sound, and lots of very romantic love songs.
By the way, as it turns out, we used a couple of Kenn's photos from WWII on the CD art. That's him with the big sax on the cover. And that guy next to the car in the picture at the top of this page? That's my dad, back in 1946. Cool, huh?
Enjoy!
