****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
Orchestral jazz is a special and often hard-to-find variety of jazz, and this album is one of the best representatives of that genre. Mangione was at his best when writing for large ensembles. This 1973 concert recording also features vocalist Esther Satterfield on three of the six tracks, and a 24-voice chorus on one track. Mangione's quartet is out in front of the orchestra, including his superb soprano saxophonist Gerry Niewood. A couple of notable names in the ensemble: Jon Faddis leads the trumpet section, and Steve Gadd is one of the percussionists.Each of the tracks is very different in character. "Legend of the One-Eyed Sailor" is a great opener, building intensity as it goes, with nice solos from Mangione and Niewood and powerful backup from Faddis. The beautiful "Lullaby for Nancy Carol" is Esther's first vocal of the set, and my favorite of her performances on this album. "El Gato Triste" is a cello feature, but don't imagine that it's a dull classical piece. Wait until the Latin rhythm gets going. The back-and-forth between the ensemble and the percussion section makes for a great climax to this piece."Gloria from the Mass of St. Bernard" appears to be Chuck's tribute to the era when the master composers of Europe relied on the Catholic Church as a major patron. The classical influence is clearly there, but updated a few centuries. This one features the vocal chorus and includes a brief but tasteful appearance by Niewood's soprano."As Long As We're Together" has a bright pop-feel, but Esther's vocal is far more challenging and covers a greater range than most pop tunes. But that's just a warm-up for the 12-minute "Land of Make Believe," a brilliant arrangement that gives everybody - ensemble, soloists, and vocalist - an opportunity to stretch. A fitting closer to a great concert.I wish someone would release a CD version of "Together," my other favorite Mangione full-orchestra album.
