Arranger
Bob Curnow transcribed a dozen compositions by
Pat Metheny and/or
Lyle Mays (originally recorded by the Pat Metheny Group) and adapted them for his
Stan Kenton-influenced big band. The instrumentation differs drastically from
Metheny's quartet and some of the pieces were originally very electric, but somehow these new renditions make the songs sound as if they were originally designed for this orchestra. The 20-piece big band is full of some of the cream of L.A.'s jazz scene and includes such soloists as trombonists
Andy Martin and Rick Culver; saxophonists
Bob Sheppard,
Rob Lockart, and Danny House; pianist
Bill Cunliffe; and a mighty trumpet section. This is an unusual concept that somehow works perfectly and with surprising logic. ~ Scott Yanow