CD Review: John Fedchock NY Sextet, "Into The Shadows"

Brilliant Trombonist John Fedchock will be releasing his tenth album as a leader with an all-star group of musicians who make up the John Fedchock NY Sextet.  John has written 5 of the 8 songs on his new CD, "Into The Shadows", solos on many of them and did all the arranging.  Talk about multi-talented musicians, John excells at anything he touches and this CD is no exception.  John has already had many Grammy nominations for his work with his New York Big Band but wanted to do somethhing in a  smaller format.  According to Fedchock, "Working with the sextet is the best of both worlds.  While still giving plenty of space for individual soloists, the configuration offers unique, creative writing options and maintains a sleek and mobile blend."  I totally agree!

Fedchock began his career in 1980 as Jazz Trombonist with the legendary Woody Herman Orchestra, serving as featured soloist, musical director and chief arranger for Herman's last two Grammy nominated CDs.  Herman said of Fedcock, "He's my right hand man.  Everything I ask of John he accomplishes, and I ask a lot".  Herman was noted for being a tough taskmaster and accepted nothing less than perfection from his band mates.  So this quote should be very impressive to any Jazz listener!

Take a look at the players participating on this CD.  Every one of them is a star in their own right.

Players:
John Fedchock- Trombone, Composer, Arranger
Scott Wendholt- Trumpet & Flugeorn
Walt Weiskopf- Tenor Sax
Allen Farnham- Piano
David Finck- Bass
Eric Halvorson- Drums  


Playlist:
1. "RSVP"
2. "Alpha Dog"
3. "Manaus"
4. "I Should Care"
5.  "Nature Boy"
6. "Into The Shadows"
7.  "Star Eyes"
8. "On The Edge"

This CD has 5 orginal songs composed by John Fedchock that are fresh and terrific Jazz tunes.  I have attached the first cut on the album, "RSVP" so you can hear the magical composing from John Fedchock.

The second cut is the band's take on the old chestnut, "I Should Care".  I love this recording because I think it has the feel of one of my favorite bands, The Kenton Band,   I am sure you will enjoy both selections!