| Jazz |
Tommy Banks was primarily a Canadian composer and pianist who also served as a senator. This album pays tribute to him, Tommy Banks (1936-2018), a jazz legend who was both a world-class musician and an advocate for the performing arts in his community. Banks, a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, television personality, actor, producer, and politician, had an exceptional and versatile career spanning over 60 years in virtually every aspect of the entertainment industry in Canada. He became a professional jazz pianist at the age of 14, later leading his own bands, conducting symphony orchestras around the world, overseeing musical ceremonies at international events, hosting his long-running television show, and appearing in films and TV shows. He also served in the Canadian Senate for nearly 12 years.
Formed in 2005 by bassist Kodi Hutchinson and pianist-composer Chris Andrew, the trio, which includes drummer Dave Laing, is a significant force on the Canadian and North American jazz scene, receiving numerous nominations and winning the prestigious TD Grand Jazz Award at the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
Once again, this is a documentary-style work that allows the music of Tommy Banks to be revived and perpetuated. It’s a form of very “classic” jazz modernized by the trio’s rhythmic focus, which adds a special dimension to the themes and melodies. Mallory Chapman’s lovely voice doesn’t go unnoticed, even though she doesn’t seek to impress with her vocal abilities. She places her voice perfectly within the music, blending with it delightfully, and this is particularly evident on the track “I’ll be seeing you”.
On this complex musical structure, the trio is once again acclaimed for its elegance and lightness in interpretation. Indeed, this album is a true delight to listen to, making it one of our favorites, according to the editors of Bayou Blue Radio and Paris-Move.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, September 7th 2023
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