In 1991 the Eastlawn label released the Sun Sounds Orchestra's debut recording, "Open The Doors." The Sun Sounds Orchestra was a 13/14 piece big band that was based in Detroit. The founders, Rick Steiger, RJ Spangler and Paul Carey, had all played together in a group called the Sun Messengers, which played a mix of jazz, New Orleans R&B and world music, all with a distinctive Detroit flavor. As the Messengers moved toward a more straight R&B approach, they still wanted to still play the African charts that was at their core sound. Enter the Sun Sounds Orchestra, playing South African Township arrangements inspired by Chris McGregger's Brotherhood of the Breath, Dollar Brand (Abdullah Ibrahim) and Hugh Masekela. This CD also features a great minor tune by Fela Kuti.
The musicians involved are stalwart members of the Messengers and their usual associates like saxists Mark Keime and Larry Lamb, trombonist John "T-Bone" Paxton, trumpeter James O'Donnell, percussionists Akunda Hollis and Steve Morris, drummer Jerome Spearman and Lyman Woodard on piano. Lyman is a very well known jazz organist and Latin music lover. Trumpeter Walt Szymanski is a special guest who has gone on to do quite well in NYC, where he is associated with Frank Foster, George Gee and Alex Harding. The leaders, Rick Steiger (bari/alto sax), Paul Carey (guitar) and RJ Spangler (perc.), round out the ensemble, with Spangler serving as producer. The CD won a "Best World Beat Recording" award from the Motorcity Music Awards that year.
This is an excellent recording that features some wonderful African compositions and a few originals in the African jazz tradition. It also has some great ensemble playing with time tested arrangements and journeyman soloists. You can tell the guys really enjoyed these sessions. The CD also features original artwork by famed Detroit artist Tyree Guyton.
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