Band of Bones: The Great Band of Trombones and something more...!

The Constitution and validity of Band of Bones, in these times is a great achievement. To remain United small bands is difficult, it will be a big band.

When Band of Bones materialise, with their leader Dave "David" Chamberlain, his debut in 2010 were already aware that would be durable and progressive.

The influence of Latin music in them has been a determining factor for their production; but still curious style, its rhythm, its arrangements, its conformation as Orchestra.

This Big Band of Dave Chamberlain since its inception has its own personality and his own swing. We cannot say categorically because the topics that run is the Latin American repertoire be Latin Jazz, have a particular combination that much attention..

In his first CD "Band of Bones" recorded themes such as "Girl From Ipanema", "El Manisero", "A Night in Tunisia", "Bolivia" that were pointing to the Guide; and having also a man of Afro-Caribbean rhythm as Wilson "Chembo" Corniel.

Now, Band of Bones, continuing vigorously launched on March 11 of this year "Caravan", at Zinc Bar, NYC, great job involving also trombonist Steve Turre (sanctified shells) and Hendrik Meurkens harmonica Wizard

You discern right away that Dave Chamberlain and his Band of Bones have a clean windshield and a full tank of gas.

Their "Caravan" is occupied by nine trombones, a rhythm section built for synergy, a passioned singer and a couple of special guests who wouldn't miss the ride for the world!

For this trip, Band of Bones has packed nine tunes with new clothes they are anxious to show off.

 They start off at full speed, with Jeff Fairbanks' arrangement of the Dizzy Gillespie/Chano Pozo classic "Manteca." As percussionist Chembo Corniel channels Pozo, and drummer Mike Campenni lights a fire, trombonist Nate Mayland and the leader on flute carry on a brisk call-and-response with the ensemble.

Next up is guest harmonicat Hendrik Meurkens' "Slidin", which is also the title track of his 1994 Concord release. Here the tune finds new territory with Chris Rinaman's arrangement, giving this 4/4 chart a nice space for Meurkens' harmonica and Dale Turk's trombone to set the melody for Max Siegel's bass trombone solo.

"When marimba rhythms start to play, dance with me, make me sway, who will it be?" The answer is Dave Chamberlain, arranging "Sway" (Quien Sera), the Pablo Beltran Ruiz classic. Here Chamberlain and Rinaman bring their bones to the front alongside singer Kat Gang, sure to bring out your best mambo moves.

J.J. Johnson's "Lament" is one of the outstanding ballads in the jazz canon. Trombonist John Yao's arrangement shows off the ensemble feel for Matt McDonald and Mark Patterson to take gorgeous solo turns. You also understand why the group's annual J.J. Johnson salute in New York isn't to be missed.

We first became aware of the vocal talents of Kat Gang with her "Copycats And Wannabees" and "Laughing At Loneliness" recordings. With a 4 octave range, her vocal instrument is right there, alongside Nate Mayland on his offering "El Grito de la Culebra" (the Snake's Shout).

"Mr. Johnson" is a muscular tune by pianist Harold Mabern in tribute to J.J., who Mabern worked with in the mid 60's. John Yao's boiling arrangement excites the ensemble, with outstanding solos from bass trombonist Max Siegel and pianist Kenny Ascher.

Trombone master Steve Turre has said  of Band of Bones, "This group makes the listener appreciate the beauty and majesty of the sound of the trombone in an ensemble setting."  After bassist  Jerry Devore's haunting intro,  special guest Steve Turre steps out  on his tune "V.O.," shining as always on trombone and shells,   grooving nicely with Charley Gordon as the ensemble moves through this latin-tinged special.

Steve Turre and Luis Raul Montell

Juan Tizol's "Caravan", arranged by Bob Suttmann, features Matt McDonald out front, who brings us back home from a trip you now know this group thoroughly enjoyed.

Already "Caravan" of Band of Bones is heard everywhere and there is widespread as cheerful and pimientoso comment of this tasty swing.

¡¡Viva The Latin Jazz!!