Special Edit – track 9 features original lyrics by Rosana Eckert
Drew Zaremba “Reunion” – Liner notes by Dan Higgins
I first met Drew Zaremba when he was chosen to become a member of the All-American college band at Disneyland. During his summer visit he displayed his immense talent as a saxophonist. His joy of music and thirst for learning was inspiring, and over the years he discovered interests in piano, organ, woodwinds, arranging, conducting and composing. This CD, “Reunion”, is the chance to display these many talents via a traditional big band setting. It’s exciting to watch Drew’s career blossom not only in jazz education but as the leader of this wonderful big band. This is Drew’s first big band record and I found it be fresh with a stockpile of great ideas, arrangements and compositions. What a pleasure it is to hear for the first time. I know it will be for you as well. Enjoy!
The Entertainer:
With subtle hip hop roots, and a touch of Joplin-style ragtime on clarinet, this arrangement gets off to a fast start with a touch of humor. (This sense of humor is found in other of Drew’s compositions in the form of a musical quote often related to the composer or genre). Drew’s ensemble development of the melody is creative and vast in nature, all leading to a Brecker-influenced tenor solo by Austin Cebulske. A straight-ahead improv by guitarist Steve Kovalcheck follows with a classic tone and roots in swing. Drew further develops the theme as the chart winds to a big finish with a traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras vibe!
You Ain’t Got The Blues:
My old friend Wayne Bergeron joins the party as a featured trumpet soloist on this down home “feel good” blues. Wayne offers a masterful statement of the melody using his plunger mute with phrasings that emulate a human voice. Drew’s lead alto is Johnny Hodges influenced and is dripping with history. Zach Rich moans into his trombone as if giving “testimony” in court, and once again Steve shows his great tone and blues-flavored stylings on guitar. Wayne continues to shine with a tasty muted trumpet solo followed by a high note barrage we have come accustomed to with his outstanding trumpet playing. Wayne is the only guest artist on this record although Drew could have availed himself countless others. Many records are loaded with guest soloists which can take away solo opportunities from the members in the band. Drew is old-school in this manner providing space for the talent found in this “reunion” big band. This chart roars! Bravo Wayne Bergeron.
Money:
Drew shows off his vast arranging skills with this modal altered blues chart featuring vocalist Marion Powers. She delivers a sensual classy performance with an engaging, inviting interpretation of the head. Woodwinds pepper this arrangement with probing lines and harmony setting the stage for a introspective search by Jared Cathey on tenor sax. The electronic affected trumpet solo by Gabe Mervine fits right in the pocket and appropriate for the song, followed by a powerful shout chorus with angular lines. A very hip arrangement featuring the lovely voice of Marion.
Symphony No. 94, Mvmt. 2:
Erik Applegate opens this chart on bass with a deep walking groove setting the mood. Zaremba does a superb job with this arrangement combining a Count Basie influenced track occasionally interrupted by brief sections of classical-inspired woodwind orchestrations, paying tribute to composer Joseph Haydn. Drew magically mixes the 2 styles in a seamless manner and Zach adds a compelling solo on his trombone. Excellent brush work by drummer Jim White who drives this chart in all dynamics. The flute doubling lead trumpet in ensemble passages is particularly effective. What a pleasure it is listening to this chart including its surprise explosive ensemble bursts seemingly from nowhere.
Waltz in Db major by Chopin (Minute Waltz):
At a dizzying speed, the sax section get a workout on this famous melody with a clever re-harm by Zaremba. Each saxophonist shows their technical prowess on an impressive soli led by Zaremba on soprano. Master drumming by Jim White. Excellent solo work by saxophonist Austin again displaying his great ideas at this challenging tempo. Gabe’s solo on trumpet is energetic and on fire!
How Deep Is the Ocean:
The pacing of the CD is excellent allowing the listener to decompress. An example of this is “How Deep Is The Ocean”, a vocal by singer Seth Weaver who also shines on trombone. Pianist Dana Landry displays his wonderful backing to the opening melody statement as well as a trio setting behind Seth. Backed by the excellent woodwind section, featuring bass clarinet and flute, his intimate personal voice fits wonderfully in the chart.
We Got ‘Dis:
On this original arrangement we get to understand Drew’s connection to a contemporary pallet captured by this outstanding band. We hear Drew on alto saxophone showing off his depth of knowledge in the genre of Dave Sanborn and Mike Brecker. Steve Kovalcheck’s solo on guitar shows he’s equally comfortable in this style with his modern lines and sound. The groove is deep and the harmony altered, the way I like it! The Brecker Brothers would approve…
Glenmere:
We are treated to a dreamy weaving tone poem featuring fluttering flutes as well as colors provided by Steve on guitar and Dana on piano. Paul McKee provides a wonderful trombone solo that floats over the track without disrupting the mood. A groove is created by a solid bed that includes energetic brushwork by drummer Jim White. Drew’s soprano sax rides far above the fray and provides another point of view. It’s hard to pick a favorite amongst the tracks but this certainly ranks high.
Together:
Once again Drew is featured on soprano sax as well as Dana on piano interpreting this beautiful ballad. Nice flugelhorn work by the entire trumpet section as well as the brass section working as a ensemble. A wonderful sax solo by Drew. A heartfelt song with a vocal from Marion to top it off, with a touching lyric by Rosana Eckert.
Reunion is Greeley:
This is how a shuffle is done! Vintage Thad and Mel comes to mind as this chart begins to take off. A wonderful group of solos grace this track making me smile and every entrance. Swinging trombone solos by Zach, Paul and Seth! Erik provides impressive solo duties on bass as well as keeping the track driving forward. A brass soli is an outstanding highlight on this cut! A fitting way to end this impressive CD.
I look forward to the creativity Drew brings to his next big band record and all his individual skills again showcased for the jazz listener to enjoy. Simply said this is a very fine record which displays an excellent supporting staff brought together by one individual – Drew Zaremba. A pleasure to be one of the very first to hear this new music.
Dan Higgins