Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis Sherman Irby's Inferno

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis
Sherman Irby's Inferno
Blue Engine Records

"Inferno" is a suite by Sherman Irby, the lead alto saxophonist for the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO). The suite is Irby's interpretation of Dante Alighieri's epic poem from "The Divine Comedy," which takes listeners on a musical tour of the underworld's nine circles. This recording is from a May 19, 2012 performance by JLCO, the personnel of which included on Reeds: Sherman Irby (alto saxophone, clarinet, and flute), Ted Nash (alto saxophone, clarinet, and flute), Victor Goines (tenor saxophone, bass clarinet, and clarinet), Walter Blanding (tenor saxophone), and special guest Joe Temperley (baritone saxophone, bass clarinet); Trumpets; Ryan Kisor, Marcus Printup, Kenny Rampton, and Wynton Marsalis; Trombones Vincent Gardner, Chris Crenshaw, and Elliot Mason; and the Rhythm Section: Dan Nimmer (piano). Carlos Henriquez (bass), and Ali Jackson (drums).

The download of this recording that I was provided did not include more than a brief description of the music. I also am aware of Dante, but not familiar with his writings. There may be liner notes that explain the seven movements as well as the connection to Dante's writings. Baritone saxophonist Temperley is cast as the voice of Dante, while the various improvisers are intended to give life to the denizens of hell. Even without a fuller context, I was able to appreciate the music and the performance captured here.

One thing that impressed me was an Ellingtonian quality to the music and performances. One might compare the music here to some of Ellington's Suites. The sounds of the horn sections, such as the heralding of the trumpets heralding at the beginning of "Movement I; House of Unbelievers," along with the solos from Ted Nash's flute, Victor Goines' clarinet, and Chris Crenshaw's trombone, as well as the voicings of the horn sections, enhance this feel.

While the JLCO plays at a high level throughout, one standout track is the animated, blues-drenched "Movement III: Beware the Wolf and the Serpent," with Irby's heated alto sax followed by Elliot's equally spirited trombone and Wynton Marsalis fiery trumpet. But there is magic to be heard throughout this first-rate performance of a superb musical composition. "Inferno" is an outstanding recording. I understand that this recording is only available as an MP3 or hi-res WAV digital download from https://store.jazz.org/products/inferno.

I received a download to review from Blue Engine Records.