[TPIN] Fast Track; Jack Cortner and the NY big band with Marvin Stamm

[Paul Kurtz]

Fast Track is the new CD combining the talents of Jack Cortner and his
New York Big Band with those of Marvin Stamm. I think this CD is an
excellent purchase and I've certainly enjoyed mine. Money well spent. 
This CD is traditional, but not really. It's old-school but not really.
There are some traditional numbers such as On the Trail by Freddie
Grofe, but all of these have interesting harmonic twists and turns.
These changes are in good taste and not in-your-face, but they have you
paying attention. Two of my favorites on the CD are Etude and Lime House
Blues. 
Marvin's playing on this CD is fluid, tasteful, and at the same time,
has its own set of improvisational twists and turns. I've heard Marvin
play in person, recorded with trumpet and piano, and recorded live with
a small group, and I was curious if he would be able to blow over what
is a very strong trumpet section. When it was appropriate to do so, he
did. 
The only possible negative I have about the CD is that I think there's
too much echo. If the echo was because of the recording being done in a
large room or something, that's fine because it's natural. If it was
engineered in, it should've been toned down. But, this is a small thing
compared to the positives of the CD. 
This CD, with excellent sectional and individual trumpet playing, is a
good pickup for both traditional and new big band lovers. I recommend
it. 
Paul Kurtz Jacksonville, FL