Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra

Tenor Madness

 Ear Up

Granted, it’s a rather bold move to name an album after one of jazz music’s classics, the title evoking the iconic collaboration between Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane. Yet, the title is an accurate depiction of an album that features the top tenorists in Nashville, courtesy of Ryan Middagh, the Nashville-based composer, arranger, and baritone saxophonist. This is the follow-up for the Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra, who made their debut with Live From Nashville.  For the bandleader’s second effort he chose to salute to the saxophone and specifically to those musicians of his hometown. As one views the credits, however, these featured musicians stretch beyond just the tenor saxophone. Tenor Madness features   Alex Graham and Jovan Quallo are on alto;  Jeff Coffin, Don Aliquo, and Joel Frahm are on tenor; Kevin Shinskie is on both alto and tenor; and Jimmy Bowland and the bandleader himself, Ryan Middagh, are on baritone saxophone. They are all part of this large ensemble that numbers 21 musicians, and 22 when including vocalist Jenna McLean.

The album opens with a Middagh original, “Wiley Roots” on which a tenor battle indeed commences between Coffin and Aliquo, while also featuring a non saxophone solo from trombonist Roy Agee, who appears on all kinds of albums emanating from Music City. “Waiter, Make Mine Blues” is an Middagh arrangement of a tune suggested by and tailored to the vocal charms of McLean, starring Aliqo again on the tenor solo. This is a throwback tune that will evoke the glorious sounds of the Big Band era. McLean steps up again, channeling her best Esther Phillips in a swinging arrangement of the chestnut “Cry Me a River” with solos from pianist Pat Coil and altoist Jovan Quallo. The title track, which also contains bluesy tinges, is a cutting session between the two most recognizable names here – Coffin and Frahm with Middagh’s arrangement making it just a bit different from the Sonny Rollins penned classic.  Both Coffin and Frahm honor their heroes but balancing their attacks with ferocity and respect.

Middagh arranges the Arlen and Mercer standard “This Time The Dream’s On Me,” which is especially meaningful as he developed the arrangement while he and his wife were expecting their first child. Given the emotive significance of the tune, Middagh steps forward for the only time along with trombonist Jeremy Wilson, who curiously is not listed under band personnel (hmm). Altoist Graham composed the closer, “Wired,” wherein Middagh’s arrangement was originally commissioned for the 2020 North American Saxophone Alliance.  On this dramatic piece the saxophone section plays as a unit in the context of the full ensemble with the composer stepping forth in a few segments as well a longer turn mid piece, sharing the spotlight with drummer Marc Widenhofer.

In addition to the saxophone section listed previously, the Ryan Middagh Jazz Orchestra comprises of Steve Patrick, Tyler Jaeger, Jeff Bailey, and Olivia Achcet (trumpets); Jonathan Salcedo, Roy Agee, and Sarah Morrow (trombones); Martin McCain and Liam Barron (bass trombones). The rhythm section consists of: Lindsey Miller (guitar), Pat Coil (piano), Jake Jezioro (bass), and Marc Widenhofer (drums).

Rollins’ original will always remain a classic but Middagh’s effort only borrows title as he mostly shifts the emphasis from epic, lengthy solos to great achievement in arranging, leadership, and democracy at work within the large ensemble.

– Jim Hynes

Buy Us a Cup of Coffee!

Join the movement in supporting Making a Scene, the premier independent resource for both emerging musicians and the dedicated fans who champion them.

We showcase this vibrant community that celebrates the raw talent and creative spirit driving the music industry forward. From insightful articles and in-depth interviews to exclusive content and insider tips, Making a Scene empowers artists to thrive and fans to discover their next favorite sound.

Together, let’s amplify the voices of independent musicians and forge unforgettable connections through the power of music

You can donate directly through Paypal!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter