| Jazz |
The release of the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra’s eighth album shines a spotlight on fresh works by Canadian composers Fred Stride and Jean-Nicolas Trottier. One of the ensemble’s core missions is to foster creative bonds between jazz performers and composers across Canada. Several years ago, the WJO reached out to Montreal-based Trottier with the idea of a commissioned collaboration. Without hesitation, he suggested Fred Stride\, based in Vancouver—whom he had met over a decade earlier during masterclasses Stride led at the Université de Montréal. The result of this artistic reunion is a radiant nine-movement suite, unveiled on this new recording.
Both Fred and Jean-Nicolas are among the country’s most prolific jazz composers, and the WJO is thrilled to bring them together for this ambitious project.
I wrote about their previous album here: Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra – Tidal Currents
A DownBeat Editor’s Pick for 2024 and awarded four stars, Tidal Currents set the bar high. So what should we make of this new suite? The flavors are familiar, bold, sophisticated writing animated by clever, ever-evolving arrangements. But there’s a palpable deepening here, perhaps a heightened sense of drama, a reflection of our unsettled times. After all, art often echoes the historical moment in ways that escape definition.
As Ron Schepper wrote in Textura about the WJO’s previous release: “…a remarkable ensemble whose seventh outing maintains the high standard set by its predecessors… The four pieces form a half-hour suite rich in rewards, thanks to the ensemble’s performance and the strength of the compositions… a splendid addition to the group’s discography.”
That still holds true. This new work continues to embody a rare sense of excellence in large ensemble writing. The performers are as passionate as they are engaging, and each track is introduced with an atmospheric flair that draws you in further.
About the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra:
The WJO holds the distinction of being Canada’s first professional community-based, non-profit jazz orchestra. Founded in 1997 and registered as a charitable organization in 2000, the WJO has become a cultural pillar in Winnipeg’s arts scene, supported by the Manitoba Arts Council, the Winnipeg Arts Council, the Winnipeg Foundation, and other key partners.
The orchestra’s mission is to play a leading role in advancing and celebrating big band jazz throughout Manitoba and beyond, through live performance, original composition, recording projects, and educational initiatives.
A must-hear release for all lovers of jazz.
Thierry De Clemensat
Member at Jazz Journalists Association
USA correspondent for Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor for All About Jazz
Editor in chief – Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, April 21st 2025
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