Jazz review: Scottish National Jazz Orchestra

Published on Monday 29 June 2009 19:28

SCOTTISH NATIONAL JAZZ ORCHESTRA **** OLD FRUITMARKET, GLASGOW

THE release of a live recording of Tommy Smith's re-composition – arrangement doesn't quite cover it – of George Gershwin's Rhapsody In Blue has allowed a much clearer understanding of the structure of the piece than was possible on its premiere back in 2006, and has served to emphasise just what a major piece of work it is.

The version they played here in Glasgow was even more extended by soloing than the recorded one, and if there were some quibbles about the sound in the venue, the playing was simply stupendous, with Brian Kellock again taking the main solo role.

Gershwin's original piano part is reproduced in full in the course of the extended work (it's a good three times longer overall), and the pianist gave a typically bravura account of it.

Gershwin's familiar melodic themes, harmonic colourings and vibrant rhythms were carefully worked into the new musical texture, and the enlarged compass provided ample solo space for the band's many gifted soloists, led by Tommy Smith.

Steve Hamilton took the piano chair in the second set, featuring a truncated version of the Tribute to Buddy Rich they premiered earlier this year, with the remarkable Alyn Cosker conjuring up the spirit and style of the man who was arguably the greatest drum technician in jazz history.

The cogent, brassy arrangements and punchy soloing allowed the band to shine on tunes including Norwegian Wood, Bugle Call Rag, Love for Sale and the West Side Story Suite.