chasing a different carrot

i have never been enthralled by big band music.  a variety of reasons, i suppose.  i admittedly rarely listen to it on recordings, and occasionally check it out live.  i don't know a lot about the history of that style.  i appreciate the writing and arranging when listening and playing, but have a hard time getting comfortable with the multitude of concepts of time and swing and intonation amongst the players.  i like reading, but wish there were more opportunities for blowing. i don't double, and don't plan to start.  yet, i enjoy doing big band gigs and get a kick out of leading my own group.

i've got friends that really dig this music, who run their own bands, and i absolutely respect their tastes.  i value their friendship and acknowledge their musicianship.  nothing personal at ALL ... big band music just ain't my thing.  i played it a bunch in college and do some occasionally now, and that's plenty for me.  my head is into other stuff.

last night, i had the pleasure of playing with the jazz coalition big band, under the direction of my great friend russ kramer.  he is a music nut, a mobile jazz encyclopedia, a clever trumpeter, a quick-witted audio sabelotodo.  he has assembled a working big band, with a monthly club date in the sleepy town of mason city and some occasional concert work throughout the state.  they play good rep, can fill many solo spots, and keep a regular roster of players that help with continuity and ensemble sound.

this is not a picture of the band.  

they don't rehearse.  some of the guys are band directors while others have regular day jobs.  the gig  doesn't pay.  we had a false start on a tune.  but that's not the point...

the folks in the band are positive.  they all seem to truly enjoy being there.  nobody is bitching about the money or passing blame onto others when the form gets botched.  they hoop and holler for good solos.  they laugh at russ's jokes (which are generally pretty funny).  they take the gig seriously, but not themselves.  they are considerate, sharing solos and deferring to others.  they actually give me plenty of solo space and are very supportive of my sonic explorations.  their personal stories are interesting too. one gal just got married and talks to me about how to use my digital slr camera.  one guy introduced me to his young boy, whom he is raising all by himself.  another talked with me about his three sons coming home for christmas.  one guy is in his 70s, and his joyful approach to life and music is infectious.  these are my friends...

and they can swing too.  sure, there are reading mishaps and chipped notes and sluggish tempos every once in a while.  but there are also plenty of nice ensemble moments, some authentic and inspired solos, and an encouraging vibe amongst bandmates. they have a large following of appreciative listeners of all ages, who understand the etiquette of jazz performances.  they eat, drink, and i even saw one guy turn off the tvs by himself (after the packers game, of course).

i am blessed to have the opportunity to play with these folks from time to time.  i drive 80 minutes one way for no money, but leave with a blackened chicken sandwich for the road, a stack of cds that russ has burnt for me, a bunch of new knowledge about the history of this music, and a smile across my face the size of texas.