George Russell - Stratusphunk

Arranging, composing, inspiring

Lovers of Gil Evans will recognise the title track by Mr Russell which Evans arranged for big band and which appears if I recall correctly on his OUT OF THE COOL. Mr Evans kept good company with the likes of Miles Davis and George Russell as in the context of this album STRATUSPHUNK being recorded 45 years ago; written with Mr Russell's usual panache and arranged with meticulous care to dynamics and colour and with recognizable melodies whilst swinging like mad, this is a five star enterprise. In addition, it includes a track written by Carla Bley and one by David Baker (also on tramboon). Al Kiger plays superbly on trumpet, Dave Young is on tenor and cooks, Chuck Israels is a master on bass with a pedigree to die for (he opens the disc with a strolling solo) Joe Hunt does a fine job on the drum kit and the leader, composer, arranger adds colour and harmony and rhythm on the piano. This program of music makes you (so to speak) sit up and pay attention. Great stuff. Do not deny yourself the pleasure. I did for many years and only acquired it 2001. September 27, 2004

Interesting album and David Baker on trombone!

In the world of Jazz George Russell is pretty undervalued. This is a great album for _anyone_ to pick up and broaden their horizons. Baker's trombone playing is interesting to say the least, and this album is wholly part of Russell's "Concept" which is something of an enigma to most people, (including this reviewer). New Donna is a very interesting take off on the Parker tune "Donna Lee" And the title track is sublime-ly off kilter with a bass introduction and a melody from another planet. :) September 7, 2001

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