Since COVID lockdown, we’ve run a recurring print column called Another Look that rounds up several super-brief record reviews. It’s a way to highlight worthy releases from Nashville-residing musicians during the past few months that we haven’t yet covered in-depth. The time has come for an evolution: Rather than one whopping article, we’re revamping Another Look as a series of single short reviews, with one or more iterations online each week.
Although he principally works on the academic side via his duties at Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music, Ryan Middagh hasn't let his playing or leadership skills slide. He currently heads a first-rate jazz orchestra, and on their newest venture the ensemble present a spirited, superbly performed set of originals and standards that highlight the saxophone. The record pays homage to the classic 1956 Sonny Rollins session that features this titular piece.
The impressive lineup includes loads of heavyweights: Alex Graham and Jovan Quallo on alto, Jeff Coffin and Don Aliquo on tenor, Joel Frahm and Kevin Shinskie on both alto and tenor, with Jimmy Bowland joining Middagh at the back end on baritones. In addition to being a showcase for powerhouse playing and solo brilliance, Tenor Madness spotlights Middagh’s arranging skills. The title cut features Coffin and Frahm exchanging fiery solos, while Middagh's composition "Wiley Roots" not only boasts another set of adventurous solos from Coffin and Aliquo, but also an excellent one from trombonist Roy Agee.
Middagh's nice reworking of "This Time the Dream's on Me" is the lone selection where he steps out alone and delivers a rousing baritone statement. Other gems include a fine version of "Cry Me a River," with ace contributions from Quallo, pianist Pat Coil and vocalist Jenna McLean. "Waiter, Make Mine Blues" gets sparked by another outstanding McLean vocal and equally strong Aliquo tenor spotlight segment.
Middagh’s Tenor Madness is a straight-ahead, principally mainstream release, but it's far from predictable or detached. Also, while the sax is the featured instrument, the contributions of the orchestra's other members prove equally important. These include Steve Patrick, Tyler Jaeger, Jeff Bailey, and Olivia Achcet (trumpets); Jonathan Salcedo, Sarah Morrow and Agee (trombones); plus Martin McCain and Liam Barron (bass trombones). In addition, there's a strong rhythm section with Lindsey Miller (guitar), Pat Coil (piano), Jake Jezioro (bass), and Marc Widenhofer (drums). The playing on the LP is consistently dazzling, both in the collective and solo performances. It's indisputable evidence that the big-band idiom can still provide both excitement and enjoyment. Follow Middagh on Instagram for updates.
