Dot Time Records is pleased to announce the second release in its “Legends" series entitled National Jazz Ensemble featuring Gerry Mulligan. The album is scheduled for worldwide release on February 20th, 2016. This release is the first of a series of recordings by Chuck Israels and the National Jazz Ensemble (NJE) in the “Legends" Series.
This album documents the NJE's performance of the February 2nd, 1977 concert at the New School in NYC. In its third year of existence at the time, the NJE usually sold out on the road and had good crowds at the New School, however the NJE never sold out in New York until Gerry Mulligan was the guest soloist. Gerry had made himself scarce over the previous decade and everyone in attendance understood the importance of the event. There were lines around the block. There were enough people on line to fill a second show.
This release has Mulligan playing some amazing Baritone solos while also adding some humor and warmth with his introductions. Mulligan plays on six of the nine tracks. The NJE was an impressive ensemble under Israels' baton and the recording demonstrates the power and versatility of their collective. The release also features beautifully written liner notes by David Berger, trumpeter, archivist and ensemble witness to that majestic night nearly 40 years ago.
It seems to be no coincidence that 10 years after this concert, Wynton Marsalis and David Berger formed the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra using the NJE as their prototype.
This album documents the NJE's performance of the February 2nd, 1977 concert at the New School in NYC. In its third year of existence at the time, the NJE usually sold out on the road and had good crowds at the New School, however the NJE never sold out in New York until Gerry Mulligan was the guest soloist. Gerry had made himself scarce over the previous decade and everyone in attendance understood the importance of the event. There were lines around the block. There were enough people on line to fill a second show.
This release has Mulligan playing some amazing Baritone solos while also adding some humor and warmth with his introductions. Mulligan plays on six of the nine tracks. The NJE was an impressive ensemble under Israels' baton and the recording demonstrates the power and versatility of their collective. The release also features beautifully written liner notes by David Berger, trumpeter, archivist and ensemble witness to that majestic night nearly 40 years ago.
It seems to be no coincidence that 10 years after this concert, Wynton Marsalis and David Berger formed the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra using the NJE as their prototype.
For more information contact Scott Thompson Public Relations.
