John Vanore & Abstract Truth – Curiosity – Acoustical Concepts AC-17, 43:50 ***1/2:
(John Vanore – trumpet, flugelhorn, arranger, producer; Michael Mee – alto and soprano saxophone, flute; Mike Falcone – tenor saxophone, flute; Rocco Bene, Joe Fallon, Brian Groder, Kevin Rodgers – trumpet, flugelhorn; Mike Galan, Jose Vidal – trombone; George Barnett – French horn; Ron Thomas – piano; Craig Thomas – electric and acoustic bass; Joe Nero – drums; Joe Mullen – drums (tracks 4 & 8); Dave de Fusco – drums (track 3)
Curiosity, the sophomore release from John Vanore and Abstract Truth, represents a lost treasure rediscovered. Abstract Truth is a Philadelphia-based big band with a post-bop inclination and an Oliver Nelson influence, hinted at by the band’s name and more clearly felt in the ensemble’s use of small group dynamics within a larger assemblage context. Curiosity was initially distributed by Acoustical Concepts in 1991 and was remastered for this reissue. It did not get much exposure when issued nearly two decades ago but fans of modern big band jazz now have a second chance to hear Vanore’s particular interpretation of large group jazz.
One of the things that sets Curiosity apart from other likeminded outings is that Vanore foregoes the usual set list of classics and standards to instead concentrate on original compositions and arrangements. Only one track – a cover of Frank Foster’s "Simone" – was not written by an artist affiliated with Abstract Truth. Seven of the eight pieces were authored by Vanore, saxophonist/flautist Mike Falcone, trumpeter/flugelhorn player Kevin Rodgers or pianist Ron Thomas.
The opening title cut, Vanore’s "Curiosity," features solo work by Vanore on trumpet, Falcone on tenor sax and drummer Joe Nero. "Curiosity" secures the fabric and form of the rest of the 43-minute album. Vanore follows a blueprint in which compositions are developed with personal soloists as an integral part of the song’s identity, where structure is finely balanced with space for independent musicianship. The material allows for both intimacy and interplay, which is carried over through relatively short expositions: only one song runs over the seven minute mark.
Abstract Truth furnishes a myriad of moods. Vanore’s "Rude," for example, has a funky propensity where the horn section showcases its close-knit energy and communication. Alto saxist Michael Mee injects some soulful vim and vigor. Vanore also gets some center stage room and deals out a higher-register trumpet statement. On the quieter side, Vanore’s "Return" has a beatific melody akin to Gil Evans, a gifted bandleader who wrote elaborate arrangements that affirmed spontaneity and seems a kindred spirit to Vanore and his philosophy of putting together imaginative arrangements while affording an expansive area for unobstructed freedom.
Foster’s mid-tempo "Simone" is a highlight that brandishes the assemblage’s resonant assurance. Vanore’s flugelhorn and Falcone’s tenor sax and flute display a superb small-group realization while the bigger band exhibits manifold, melodic textures. Falcone’s sax solo, in particular, is muscular and emphasizes a bebop element that effortlessly fits into the larger mass of musicians. The most curious moment comes during the brief, slightly Asian tidbit "Origami," which adopts an entertaining melody employing just the horns. It’s a playful little segment that adds a dash of humor.
Curiosity is a commendable case of a big band presentation that stresses personal prominence mixed with the driving force of an ample ensemble. Vanore’s accomplishment is not necessarily a novel approach but his stimulating application of modern and traditional jazz dimensions in the mold of Nelson, Evans and comparable jazz purveyors is worth checking out. Vanore promises that he will follow up with new work, which bodes well for big band jazz listeners.
TrackList:
1. Curiosity
2. Dream Dancing
3. Rude
4. Return
5. Misdemeanor
6. Simone
7. Origami
8. Motion Potion
— Doug Simpson
