trombone.org masthead

 

Browse Reviews by Category

Choose an review category and whether to display the results ascending by date (oldest to newest), descending by date (newest to oldest) or in alphabetical order by title.

Order:

Recordings

A Field of Scarecrows: A Review

By Mark Rabideau • July 06, 2020
A Field of Scarecrows establishes John Kenny as something more than an artist-to-a-panel of his peers, but an artist to the world.

A Matter of Time: A Review

By Craig Brenan • October 19, 2003
What is it about trombonists and their need to record with other trombonists? A Matter Of Time recorded by the New York Trombone Conspiracy enters the rich collection of trombone ensemble albums.

A-List: A Review

By Kelly Beaman • February 22, 2005
It was a pleasure to hear and review this fine freshman production effort by virtuoso trombonist Reggie Watkins, a musician with a full arsenal of tools at his disposal. Even more impressive is his ability to compile a diverse and compelling set of works, produced on the fly over a short 3 day recording schedule, made even more challenging by the level of difficulty of these works.

Absolute Trombone: A Review

By Tom Ervin • November 01, 1997

Abstracts: A Review

By Jeff Albert • November 25, 2005
Music can have many layers of meaning. Often the composer's intended meaning is spelled out through a title or lyrics, or written about in the liner notes, or depicted in the album art. Other times, the music is simply about music, and it is left to the listener to discern meaning. The latter is the case with Abstracts, the excellent new CD from Jacob Garchik.

All Day Meeting and Dinner on the Ground: A Review

By John Seidel • September 19, 2000
This is altogether a fine recording and an excellent representation of the ancient and venerable combination of trombones and organ.

An Evening from the 18th Century: A Review

By Mike Hall • September 01, 2006
Ronald Barron has assembled a fine group of colleagues to collaborate on an alto trombone project that focuses on some of the most well known repertoire for the instrument, both original works and a transcription. An Evening from the 18th Century will please all who appreciate music of this era.


And If All Were Dark: A Review

By John Kenny • February 17, 2020
Of all David Taylor's albums, this is perhaps the most extraordinary and original. This is not just great playing - it's an extraordinary concept.

Anew At Home: A Review

By Douglas Yeo • November 01, 1998
Norman Bolter, trombonist with the Boston Symphony, has released a solo trombone album which sets new standards not only of playing, but of musical depth, integrity and atmosphere. "Anew At Home" will cause all who listen to it to reflect on music which reaches to a very deep, personal level.

Arcangelo Corelli, Solo Chamber Sonatas Opus 5: A Review

By Charles McKnight • August 04, 2004
The essence of late Baroque violin music can be found in the solo sonatas of Arcangelo Corelli (1653-1713). Mike Hall has adapted the chamber sonatas (Nos. 7-12) of Corelli's Opus 5 for alto trombone, harpsichord, and double bass. The performances on this recording are beautiful and persuasive, both musically and technically.

Aries Trombone Quartet: A Review

By Brad Edwards • May 26, 2022
With the exception of the final piece, every piece was written or arranged by a trombonist. Given the difficulty of these pieces, it shows how far the perception of our instrument's capabilities has advanced.

Arrows of Time: A Review

By Brad Edwards • April 26, 2000
David Vining, Professor of Trombone at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, issues this confident solo recording featuring music from the present and the past.

Art of Fugue: A Review

By Ben Bruflat • December 28, 2021
Mike Hall brings trombone repertoire back into the 18th century, inspiring his audience to join him in this album of old-meets-new. While other artists may be looking forward, Hall proves that there is still much to be learned by looking back.

Beast: A Review

By George Astling • October 10, 2004
Beast, by trombonist David Manson, presents 5 electro acoustic works; four for live trombone and tape, and one for radung and guitar. Manson presents a very solid and virtuosic performance and all the pieces are crafted by composers comfortable in the mediums they have chosen. The technology that is used in the pieces and the virtuosity of the performer do not over shadow the artistic ideas of the individual works.

Beautiful Dancer: A Review

By Craig Brenan • January 06, 2002
Carelli, while being a trombonist, and a skilled one at that, really uses this album to showcase his considerable vocal talents. Carelli offers eleven selections, all but one featuring vocals as well as trombone.

Bedlam in Bethlehem: A Review

By Richard Human, Jr. • December 19, 2003
A recording of Christmas music for trombone quartet and quintet by the Pacific Trombone Quartet and guest artist Ian McDougall and Annabelle Vitek.

Benedetto Marcello and Johann Ernst Galliard Sonatas: A Review

By Mike Lomas • May 26, 2020
One could say that Mike Hall's editing causes the pieces to come surging back to life, but on these discs, this is also aided by his impressive solo playing.

Best Next Thing: A Review

By Peter Tijerina • September 10, 2022
With its wide variety of excellent musicians and compositions, this album delivers something appetizing for every jazz lover. It's very much in the spirit of jazz improvisation and is the "Best Next Thing" when it comes to jazz recordings.

Beyond the End of the Century: A Review

By Tom Lukowicz • July 11, 2022
Beyond the End of the Century" on Summit Records was originally released in 1998 as "At the End of the Century" by the International Trombone Association. The ITA commissioned this project specifically for Alessi to showcase new compositions.

Blues for Cook: A Review

By Tom Ervin • January 01, 1999
The majority of the works on this release are well known tunes, presented in the time-honored standard mainstream and bebop format. There's a pleasant variety of tempi and styles, and the mix is almost always very good indeed. The trombone sound is particularly well recorded.

Bone-Alone: A Review

By Dean Olah • September 20, 2001
Elias Faingersh is obviously a talented and creative trombonist who has explored his own musical personality to produce these compositions. This CD is not the typical recording of mainstream trombone music.

Bonegasm: A Review

By Donn Schaefer • June 01, 2020
Released in 2019, this recording has garnered positive reviews and accolades including a #18 spot on the Billboard Jazz Chart. Bonegasm sets the stage for more recordings and performances from this outstanding ensemble!

Bundee Brothers Bone Band: A Review

By Adam Gaines • May 19, 2005
If you're looking for the most artistic trombone CD release this year, look elsewhere. But if you're a trombone junkie who would love to hear a couple of the instrument's most powerful and wild players romping through a mosaic of different types of jazz, this is the CD for you.


Christmas Time is Here by Dan Gottshall: A Review

By Richard Human, Jr. • December 06, 2003
This is a fun holiday recording by versatile vocalist and trombonist Dan Gottshall.

Close Your Eyes...and Listen: A Review

By Peter Madsen • September 02, 2005
Mike Fahn established himself years ago on both coasts as a master jazz musician and virtuoso valve trombonist, but according to Howard Mandel's liner notes Fahn considers Close Your Eye and Listen (released in 2002) to be his true debut album. Mike Fahn's creativity as a musician, composer, and arranger make this a unique addition to one's CD collection.

Convergence: A Review

By Michael Lawson • September 01, 2006
Like a fine cognac, Chris Brubeck's compositions go down smooth and mature with age. His penchant for jazz, blues and rock 'n roll find a home in full size orchestrations with aplomb. Those familiar with his Bach to Brubeck album will not find dissappointment in this latest offering, Convergence.


Cornerstone: A Review

By Michael Brown • March 01, 2000
Douglas Yeo, bass trombonist with the Boston Symphony, has obviously crafted a recording that is a labor of love. This collection serves as an evangelical witness to his deeply held Christian beliefs and as a fine example of his lyrical musicianship.

Crossroads: A Review

By Jeff Albert • April 27, 2007
Tim Coffman presents a solid set of compositions by noted hard bop heavies, along with three standards and an original. This disc is about celebrating the lineage of mainstream modern jazz. The crisp arrangements are performed with skill and conviction.

Czech Trombone Treasures: A Review

By Mike Lomas • April 28, 2001
This CD could be a valuable introduction to the sort of music played by Czech trombone choirs, and in particular showcases the contents of Blahnik's three volumes of arrangements of trombone choir music: "Prague Trombones," "New Prague Trombones" and "Encore! Prague Trombones."

DidgeriBone: A Review

By Douglas Yeo • March 11, 2002
Sven Larsson is an accomplished player, and while even a relatively short CD of free improvisation with overdubbed bass trombone and didgeridoo may wear thin on some listeners, there is an undeniable appeal to his efforts.

Divertissement: A Review

By Michael Huff • September 01, 2006
The music on Archibald's CD entitled Divertissement was initially intended to expose young performers and listeners to classic melodies by composers of the 19th and 20th centuries. The trumpet playing is powerful, sensitive and executed with a distinctive, beautiful tone. The ensemble between Mr. Archibald and Ms. Edwards is excellent and the duo seems to convey successfully the enjoyment of performing together.

Dreams and Realities: A Review

By Jeff Albert • November 09, 2003
Dreams and Realities by the Ansgar Striepens Quintet with guest John Abercrombie is an enjoyable new offering from the German label Laika-Records.

Edenderry: A Review

By David Wilken • August 04, 2005
Marshall Gilkes's debut solo album, Edenderry, will be a welcome addition to any jazz trombone fan's CD collection. his project provides a number of different sides to his musical personality, ranging from straight ahead bebop to contemporary post-bop styles to a refreshing treatment of the Rogers & Hammerstien classic This Nearly Was Mine. Overall, this is a very enjoyable CD and we will hopefully be able to look forward to more solo work by Marshall Gilkes in the near future.

Emergency Vehicle Blues by The Big Bad Bones: A Review

By Ben Bruflat • July 12, 2021
If you're a trombone player, a jazz musician, or just somebody looking for a good time, track down this product by the The Big Bad Bones as soon as possible. You won't be disappointed!

Eternal Gratitude: A Review

By Douglas Mark • February 24, 2021
Domingo Pagliuca's 2019 debut solo album, Eternal Gratitude, was first conceived as a musical business card, but resulted in a GRAMMY award winning album and a tribute to a deep personal friendship.

Excalibur: A Review

By Bob Bernotas • October 20, 2006
Inventive new big band CDs are rare. Important new jazz trombone CDs are even rarer. And so, Excalibur by the Steve Wiest Big Band is a double treat. Each track is like a bold journey into uncharted territory, exploring lands previously unknown, but ultimately inviting and friendly.

First Impressions: A Review

By Ben Bruflat • May 04, 2020
If brass quintet music is something you seek out, especially new brass quintet music, Axiom Brass' new release is a must-have.

First Song by Ben van Dijk: A Review

By Donn Schaefer • July 24, 2004
With the release of his second solo CD, Dutch virtuoso Ben van Dijk plumbs the darkest and deepest depths of music for bass trombone. Richly expressive playing illuminates the way for the listener to follow.

Fishleather Jacket: A Review

By Jeff Albert • August 25, 2005
One aspect of jazz that often lacks the genre's requisite creativity is instrumentation. Trumpet, sax, trombone, piano, bass, drums, and guitar seem to have the jazz world's instrumental preferences locked up. A euphonium is rarely seen even in the depths of a large jazz ensemble, much less out in front of a quartet. This is only one of the reasons that jazz euphoniumist Tom Ball's independently released Fishleather Jacket is so fresh and rewarding.

Folksongs by Ensemble SONGS & Sarah Maria Sun: A Review

By Peter Fielding • December 27, 2022
Folksongs is an excellent recording, displaying the Ensemble SONGS and Sarah Maria Sun's passion for multilingual traditional vocal repertoires cast for a decidedly contemporary chamber music sound palette.

Four Baßposaune Concertos from the Early Romantic Era 1820-1830: A Review

By Chris Waage • March 01, 2021
The recording reviewed is of four early Romantic concertos for bass trombone performed on period-correct instruments by Aldo Caterina, bass trombone, and Giovanni Sabella, piano.

Fratres: A Review

By Douglas Mark • January 13, 2020
Whether you are a trombone enthusiast or simply one who appreciates a profound musical experience, this recording is well worth adding to your library.

Gallery: A Review

By David Wilken • November 15, 1999
McKee's first album as a leader, is a long overdue chance for the listener to not only hear McKee stretch out and play some very well crafted improvisations, but also enjoy McKee's formidable skills as a composer/arranger.

Get 2 It: A Review

By Bob Bernotas • October 06, 2001
Eubanks' most recent CD release, "Get 2 It," is unquestionably the best recorded example to date of the acoustic-electronic fusion that he has so successfully pioneered.

Give It All You Got: A Review

By Peter Tijerina • December 15, 2021
This album is for the listener who wants to experience a series of accessible and full-hearted jazz music, jam-packed with modern bebop, blues, and gospel playing from top-tier musicians.

Gorgon: A Review

By John Seidel • September 01, 1997
This is an outstanding recording that will appeal not only to trombonists but to the musical public at large. That the Trombone Concerto is included in the package and that it is a Pulitzer Prize winner played beautifully by one of the world's great trombonists can only enhance the cause of the solo trombone generally. We owe a great deal to Christopher Rouse, to Joe Alessi, and to the Colorado Symphony with its fine conductor, Marin Alsop. The least we can do is buy the record.

Half Man, Half Machine: A Review

By Jonathan Houghtling • May 18, 2020
The fact that Christopher is able to perform on trombone and voice at such an incredibly high level, in addition to seamlessly combining all of the technological elements, makes him the epitome of the consummate musician.

Hear and Now: A Review

By Peter Madsen • May 26, 2021
Hear and Now is Presence, Vision, Passion, Inspiration, Reflection, Dialoge, Evolution, Action, Change.

Heart Disc: A Review

By David Wilken • February 04, 2005
Trombonist Robert Bachner is not a well known name among jazz fans in the United States. With his debut CD, Heart Disc, American jazz fans will finally have the opportunity to hear Bachner's music without needing to travel to his native Austria. In addition to Bachner's very compelling trombone playing and composition his sidemen all deserve mention as important contributors to Heart Disc. Christian Maurer (saxophones), Reinhard Micko (piano), Uli Langthaler (bass), and Christian Salfellner (drums) play very expressively and interact extraordinarily well with each other on this project.

Homecoming by John Jensen: A Review

By Jeff Albert • February 12, 2003
Musicians often get together with friends for a jam session, and later think, "We should have recorded that!" John Jensen did record it.

Hora Decima: A Review

By Michael Huff • February 22, 2005
Formed in the early 1990s, the Hora Decima Brass Ensemble began as a monthly workshop experience for brass musicians in the New York City area. The playing on this CD is fantastic, the group seemed to be formed initially for the love of brass music and that enthusiasm comes through in their playing. It equals or surpasses the recordings made by many of the fine brass ensembles in existence today.


In and Out: A Review

By Horace Maxile • September 08, 2004
Given Steve Baxter's impressive list of performers with which he has performed, it is no surprise that his first solo recording In and Out is also impressive. As composer and producer, Baxter offers a variety of tracks ranging from mid-tempo R&B grooves to heavy funk pockets to lush ballads.

it's fine...it's andy!: A Review

By Bob Bernotas • May 07, 2003
Although this new CD by talented West Coast trombonist Andy Martin is dedicated to Rosolino's memory, it is not one of those slavish, and oh, so dull, "tribute albums." While others may believe that "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery," Martin understands that, in jazz, flattery will get you nowhere. So he pays tribute to Rosolino's legacy by absorbing it and building upon it to create his own personal musical statement.

Le Monde Du Serpent: A Review

By Wade Rackley • November 23, 2003
It is an all-encompassing tour of the history, repertoire, and capabilities of this seemingly neanderthal member of our low brass family, and is a musically enjoyable addition to our catalogue of low brass recordings.

Live at Barbes: A Review

By Jeff Albert • March 09, 2007
My first thought upon putting Live at Barbes in my CD player was, "this sounds like fun." The Four Bags draw an amazing variety of textures and colors out of their four instruments. If you bring a sense for adventure and a sense of humor, The Four Bags can show you a good time.

Lonely Town by Alan Kaplan: A Review

By Jeff Albert • May 31, 2002
There is a great probability that you have already heard Alan Kaplan's trombone, and an equal probability that you did not know who you were hearing at the time.

Maya by David Gibson: A Review

By Jeff Albert • October 10, 2002
For those of you with doubts about the future of modern jazz trombone, let Maya by David Gibson assuage your fears.

Movin' Up: A Review

By Craig Brenan • November 15, 2000
Larry McClellan's album gives the listener an opportunity to hear the writer, educator, administrator and trombonist perform in what is an obviously comfortable setting.

Musica Mobilis - Music for Brass: A Review

By Anthony B. Kirkland • September 09, 2019
This compact disc contains a variety of programmatic music composed by James A. Beckel, who was the principal trombonist in the Indianapolis Symphony from 1969 to 2018 and is a Professor of Music at DePauw University.

Nana: A Review

By Dean Olah • February 18, 2001
Nana, the Spanish word for lullaby, may seem like a misnomer for a CD of a bass trombonist, but with help from a collection of world-class musicians, Ben van Dijk has excelled at presenting his horn as a truly melodic instrument worthy of this title.

Nebulebula: A Review

By Craig Brenan • January 11, 2021
This two-disc collection of music covers the gamut from intense driving modern jazz, free form improvisation, gospel choir(, moody, introspective, almost jam band-esque, to music that reveals hidden treasures as the music progresses.

New York Legends - Joseph Alessi: A Review

By John Seidel • March 01, 1998
One in a series of recordings by Cala Records celebrating first chair players of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, this CD provides trombone aficianados with plenty of opportunity for a thorough look at the many facets of one of America's premier trombonists.

Northern Soundings: A Review

By Dean Olah • April 20, 2003
Northern Soundings is a fine recording of both solo and ensemble music for trombone by Canadian composers.

Obscurity by Rick Simerly: A Review

By Jeff Albert • June 02, 2003
Recorded in July of 2002, Obscurity features Rick with several of his fellow faculty members from the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Camp, playing a nice mix of originals and jazz standards.

Out of a Dream, Loves Songs: A Review

By Kelly Beaman • June 18, 2005
In what I believe is his seventh auditory offering as a soloist, Harry Watters chooses a path of romanticism, with nine of the best and most classic Love Songs, as the album is aptly titled. So, put this CD on, light some candles, grab your mate, scatter some sawdust on the hardwood floor (sorry if you have carpeting) and get busy polishing it.


Passageways: A Review

By David Vayo • September 14, 2004
This self-produced collection includes three compositions for brass, two for piano, and two for strings; each depicts a scenario described by the composer in the liner notes. When this composer delves most deeply inside himself, he comes up with the finest pearls.

Playing Favorites: A Review

By Chris Waage • October 30, 2019
This would be a great addition to any trombonist's library. The repertoire is outstanding and the performances fiery and inspired.

Plunge - Falling With Grace: A Review

By Chris Waage • September 28, 1998
Chris Waage reviews this very different recoding by Plunge, featuring arranger and trombonist Mark McGrain.

Portraits - Technology and Bones: A Review

By Peter Fielding • January 14, 2023
Portraits - Technology and Bones is a wonderful mosaic that will appeal to many trombonists and contemporary music enthusiasts. The album continues Alix Tuscou's Technology and Bones work, affirming his excellence as a bass trombonist, composer, mixer/producer, and all-around collaborative artist.

Preludes, Rags and Cakewalks: A Review

By James William Sobaskie • May 11, 2020
At first blush, the recent release of Preludes, Rags and Cakewalks, conducted by Eric Crees, might seem like an album of encores, or a collection meant for light listening. But this compact disc is much more.

Proclamation & In Search of a Dream: A Review

By Gordon Bowie • January 01, 1998
Proclamation, a ground-breaking CD by Boston Symphony bass trombonist Douglas Yeo, is described by its executive producer as "a recording in celebration of the bass trombone." What a splendid celebration it is!

Reconnected: A Review

By Peter Tijerina • February 01, 2022
Getting in touch with one's heritage is a key component to fully understanding oneself and trombonist and euphoniumist Altin Sencalar has done just that with his latest jazz album, Reconnected.

Return of the Alto: A Review

By Brent Phillips • April 21, 2005
Upon the first hearing of this CD I was initially struck by the wide range of stylized and varied material. Mr. Baron in his usual fashion demonstrates exceptional technique and near flawless intonation throughout this disc. We should all tip our hats and present arms to Mr. Barron and his Return of the Alto.


Royal Opera House Brass Soloists' "On The Town": A Review

By Michael Huff • December 16, 2007
The name of this organization implies that you will hear impressive soloistic brass playing by the members of this group. This is absolutely true, but the ensemble sound, pitch and group dynamics equally match the virtuosic individual playing.

Sapphire: A Review

By Mike Lomas • August 07, 2021
I recommend this extraordinary performance to all trombonists as well as to anyone who loves music. Steiner and Hochwartner are an outstanding duo. We hope to be hearing a great deal more from them in the future.

Simple Complexity: A Review

By Tom Brantley • January 01, 1999
Simple/Complexity -- Rick Simerly's new CD release -- is a straight ahead recording. Not in the sense of a Basie straight ahead, but in the sense of a straight ahead small group jazz. All of the players on this recording are seasoned, accomplished musicians.

Smile: A Review

By David Wilken • December 09, 2019
This album is remarkable for a number of reasons, notably Jarvis's impeccable trombone playing and the lush, colorful arrangements. Even more impressive is the story that accompanies the circumstances around its creation.

Spectacular Trombonists: A Review

By Mike Lomas • April 08, 2003
Compiled from a number of previously-issued discs, the six tracks on this CD showcase six virtuoso players at the very top of their form.

Starsplitter: A Review

By Matthew C. Haislip • December 04, 2019
The DePauw University Band plays with a maturity and joy that makes listening to this CD an enjoyable experience. The faculty performances are worth hearing, as well. I look forward to hearing other discs from the faculty and students at DePauw.

Sunday Drive: A Review

By Dean Olah • April 15, 2002
For fans of both smooth jazz and trombone or for listeners looking for an introduction to this mellow music, this CD is a must.

Take 1: A Review

By David Oliver • September 01, 1998
The newest CD release from Boston Symphony bass trombonist Doug Yeo is unique in several ways. First, it includes three performances from his undergraduate days at Wheaton College, the first of which was in 1975, then we jump to three 1997 performances. Second, since Mr. Yeo minored in percussion at Wheaton, he's included an arrangement of Joplin's Solace which he performed on vibraphone. Third, all of the performances were recorded live, meaning that no multiple takes or editing was employed in the production of the disc. Hence the name "Take 1."

The Act of Vanishing: A Review

By Michael P. Atkinson • December 31, 2020
This is a sonically beautiful album, full of polished performances, each painted in unique instrumental colors which are radiant, perfectly balanced, and always well-situated in the stereo image, thanks to Nelson's sensitive engineering

The Chase: A Review

By Peter Madsen • September 23, 2019
Award-winning composer, producer, entrepreneur, YouTube sensation, and trombonist Nick Finzer has given jazz sackbut junkies the fix they've been looking for with his release of "The Chase."

The Golem Shuffle by Dan Gottshall: A Review

By Craig Brenan • June 01, 2002
Gottshall has produced a very interesting hybrid, utilizing the most modern elements of Jazz and Hip-Hop, based on a firm foundation of good tunes with exciting and creative execution by each member of the ensemble.

The Island of Dr. Trombone: A Review

By Mike Lomas • November 15, 2000
This CD consists of a collection of what one would describe as easy-listening jazz numbers with a tropical feel, featuring Harry Watters, jazz trombonist with the Army Blues.

The Lexingport Project: A Review

By Rick Marple • May 09, 2003
Youthful humor seems to carry through this delightfully fresh CD. The group name comes from the Greek god Momus, inspirer of writers and poets, the god of laughter, mockery and ridicule.

The London Trombone Sound: A Review

By John Seidel • September 01, 1996
Recorded by 16 trombonists drawn from the seven top orchestras in London, this album makes for enjoyable listening for trombone fans of all stripes. The sixteen that comprise the nucleus are joined by rising young London-based jazz trombonist, Richard Edwards on the jazz and rock(!) tunes, and by about 60 other trombonists scrounged from London orchestras, bands, and music schools for the grand finale, a clever arrangement of 76 Trombones for 76 trombones!

The Other Side: A Review

By Bob Bernotas • April 08, 2002
In 1992, at the age of 28, Latin jazz trombonist Chris Washburne was diagnosed with nerve cancer in his face. The doctors gave him a 50 percent chance of surviving the operation, a zero percent chance of ever playing the trombone again. So, just before checking into the hospital, he insisted on playing one last gig. When the night ended he turned to his band and told them, "SYOTOS": "see you on the other side."

The Pipes are Calling: A Review

By Peter Fielding • October 19, 2019
James Box and Jean-Willy Kunz's April 2019 release of The Pipes are Calling is an exceptional recording for trombonists and organists alike.

The Prowl: A Review

By Peter Madsen • September 08, 2004
This is Patterson's first CD but any trombonist that hears it is sure to hope for more. Be on the lookout for the next CD that is sure to be even better than the first.

The Takeover: A Review

By David Wilken • January 12, 2006
Trombonist Michael Dease's and saxophonist Chris Madsen's collaborative effort, The Takeover, shows off both musicians equally well as performers and composer/arrangers. After listening to this debut CD it is quite clear why Dease and Madsen are in demand as sidemen for notables like Wynton Marsalis, Jimmy Heath, Wycliffe Gordon and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra.

The Westerlies: A Review

By Clifton Taylor • September 05, 2019
The Westerlies' second album presents a collection of compositions that cannot be pigeonholed or even easily described in terms of genre.

To The Sky: A Review

By Craig Brenan • September 28, 2001
To The Sky is a big band offering by trombonist/composer/arranger Ryan Haines which depicts a musical perspective of the United States Air Force. This 10 track set, originally conceived as The Blue Sky Suite was designed to appeal to both the general public and fellow musicians.

Too Scared To Play: A Review

By Adam Meyer • August 18, 2005
From the very first notes, the technical facility of High Anxiety Bones on their album Too Scared to Play is clearly evident and doesn't fail to impress. From the solid high-register playing of Steve Witser through to the robust bass trombone sound of the late Ray Premru, one can find an abundance of inspiring performance. But it is the work these gentlemen achieve as a quartet that is truly exceptional.

Traveling Hard: A Review

By Michael Dease • January 24, 2008
The Robert Bachner Quintet's second album features five highly sensitive, well-versed musicians putting the music first. This recording would make a fine addition to your collection, and serves as a firm reminder that jazz music is alive and well in Austria.

Trombone and Strings: A Review

By Mike Lomas • April 15, 2002
The trombone soloist, Joe Burnam (principal trombone of the Turin Radio Symphony Orchestra) can be proud of this CD. It showcases a great deal of new and substantial music, some of it commissioned by Burnam, which might form the basis for an interesting recital.

Trombone con Sazon by The Latin-Jazz Coalition led by Demetrios Kastaris: A Review

By Bob Bernotas • February 12, 2003
In the seventeen years since Kastaris founded his Latin-Jazz Coalition, "El Griego Rumbero" ("The Greek Rumba Player") and his band have performed regularly in and around New York City. Now, with the help of some stellar guest artists, they have made a most welcomed recording debut with this engaging and excellent CD, Trombón con Sazón (Trombone with Spice).

Trombonly & Friends: A Review

By Richard Human, Jr. • October 09, 2000
Trombonly has performed extensively across Europe, including a performance at the 2000 ITF, at which Trombonly was honored with the Emory-Remington award. After listening to this disc, one will realize that this honor is richly deserved.

Two of a Mind by Douglas Yeo and Nick Hudson: A Review

By Gordon Bowie • June 18, 2002
Like Douglas Yeo's previous recording venrtures, this is an eclectic mix of material. Unlike the previous albums, this includes the added element of sharing the solo honors with Nick Hudson, principal trombone of the Williams Fairey Band.

Vital Signs: A Review

By Brad Edwards • February 07, 2020
Both for his excellent playing and for the presentation of valuable bass trombone solo repertoire, George Curran is to be congratulated for an outstanding offering.

Way of the Groove: A Review

By Peter Tijerina • October 03, 2022
This lovely album is sure to entertain a wide variety of listeners, including lovers of trombone, jazz, funk, and rock. "The Way of the Groove" is certainly a staple in today's groove-based musical world.

What Have I Done? A Review

By Craig Brenan • September 15, 2021
Neumeister is a solely unique trombonist. His solos are filled with his own 'language;' expressive, fun, playful, even perhaps a bit dangerous. The trombone in Neumeister's hands is a vehicle to make his intentions heard. Neumeister is a risk-taker, he is a seemingly fearless individual.

Wherein Lies the Good: A Review

By Ben Bruflat • June 01, 2022
Wherein Lies the Good is a fascinating experience and one that should be sought out by audiences of all backgrounds. The music transcends traditional boundaries and creates a welcoming atmosphere to experienced and casual listeners alike.

Wondrous Essence, An Amazing Spirit: A Review

By Dean Olah • June 12, 2001
The undertaking of recording a CD of trombone students is a terrific idea that undoubtedly is an invaluable learning experience for all involved. The production responsibilities appear to be handled solely by the students. Projects like this should be part of every major music education curriculum and Mr. Niemisto needs to be commended on his initiative.

X Over Trombone: A Review

By Douglas Yeo • March 12, 2008
With the flood of trombone recordings on the market these days - with much more of dubious than essential quality competing for attention - it is refreshing to see X Over Trombone provide us with both a look back and a look forward.