John Fedchock Up & Running CD

The John Fedchock New York Big Band is an exception in the 21st century, a big band that has lasted for an extended period with nearly all of its original members. Back in 1989, trombonist John Fedchock recruited some of the most talented session players in New York City for his large ensemble, though they were relative unknowns at the time. Over a period of years and a number of recordings together, the band has turned into somewhat of an institution, thanks to both the outstanding musicianship and the leader's impressive charts. Fedchock reharmonized the standard "Embraceable You" while keeping it accessible, bringing new life to an old warhorse. Shifting John Coltrane's "Moment's Notice" into a Latin setting (with able assistance from Bobby Sanabria on timbales) is also a distinctive detour from typical arrangements. Fedchock's originals merit equal attention to his settings of others' compositions. The lively "J Birds" is a fun feature for the leader and fellow trombonist Steve Davis. "Elvin's Empire" salutes the legendary Elvin Jones in a powerful post-bop tribute to the late drummer. Finally, "The Ariztocrat" is a playful salute to Fedchock's former boss, the late Woody Herman; this mid-tempo swinger would have pleased the bandleader. It includes delightful solos by bassist Lynn Seaton, baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan and the composer. ~ Ken Dryden

With their 4th CD "Up and Running," the John Fedchock New York Big Band continues with most of the same personnel as when it was first assembled in 1989. At that time, the bands players were all relatively unknown and have since become some of the finest

Composers: Paul Wickliffe; Justin Gerrish.

Personnel: John Fedchock (trombone); John Fedchock; Craig Hella Johnson , Kerry MacKillop (trumpet, flugelhorn); Marshall Gilkes (trombone); Lynn Seaton (bass instrument); Charles Pillow (bass clarinet, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone); Mark Vinci (alto saxophone); Rich Perry, Rick Margitza (tenor saxophone); Gary Smulyan (baritone saxophone); Scott Wendholt, Barry Ries, Tony Kadleck (trumpet, flugelhorn); Steve Davis, Keith O'Quinn (trombone); Allen Farnham (piano); Dave Ratajczak (drums); Bobby Sanabria (congas, cowbells, guiro, timbales); The New York Big Band.

Audio Mixer: Paul Wickliffe.

Liner Note Author: Bob Bernotas.

Recording information: Avatar Studio C, New York, NY (09/30/2006/10/01/2006).

Photographer: Abigail Feldman.

Arranger: John Fedchock.Down Beat (p.68) - 3.5 stars out of 5 -- "[T]he entire group sounds sharp, durable and cohesive....The whole band cooks and Fedchock shines throughout."
JazzTimes (p.96) - "This album testifies to the continued modernity of his pen, the suppleness of his trombone work and the unity of the ensemble."