The New Wonders STEPPIN’ OUT
THE NEW WONDERS
STEPPIN’ OUT
Turtle Bay Records
Mike Davis, cornet/vocals/arranger/bandleader; Ricky Alexander, alto saxophone/clarinet/vocals; Josh Holcomb, trombone; Jared Engel, banjo; Andy Schumm, piano/cornet; Jay Rattman, Bass Saxophone/vocals; Colin Hancock, drums/cornet/vocals.
Mike Davis had a dream of putting together a band that celebrated the 1920 jazz scene. He loved the music of Eubie Blake, Louie Armstrong, and the Gershwin’s. Davis set about finding the right players, picking the songs, and adding his own, fresh arrangements to these historic ragtime tunes. That’s how ‘The New Wonders’ band was formed.
These musicians not only play well, many of them also sing. Davis knew he wanted voices to enhance some of his arrangements and these band members jump right in, presenting a tight, harmonic vocal background chorus. Songs like “Everybody Loves My Baby” and “Do Do Do” employ voices, with Davis singing lead on the Gershwin song, then harmonizing in duet with alto sax man, Rickey Alexander on the catchy ‘hook’ of “Everybody Loves My Baby.” It’s a joyful presentation that shuffles across my listening room. I can picture the Rockett Dancers shaking gathered skirts, while kicking those famous legs into the air on the two and the four.
Their arrangement on the Fats Waller ballad, “My Fate is in Your Hands” is delivered with a two-step rhythm. On “My Melancholy Baby” Davis sings the lead, while Josh Holcomb’s trombone takes the place of a bass player and pumps the music full of fun and spirit. On a tune called “My Gal Sal” the band starts out in 2/4 (that two step again) then locks in a 4/4 feel when the duo vocals sing the lyrics. The strumming banjo of Jared Engel is prominent and spices up the arrangement. “My Blue Heaven” closes the album with an arrangement reminiscent of the Paul Whiteman Orchestra and features a vocal trio.
If ragtime music and stride piano days are dear to your heart, or if you wonder what jazz sounded like back in the 1920’s, this album of well-played history will bring you great pleasure.
Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil
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