Jazz's Unsung Hero: Jim Self
Jim Self is not your typical jazz musician. While the genre is often associated with saxophones, trumpets, and pianos, Jim Self has made his mark as a master of the tuba. Hailing from the bustling jazz scene of Los Angeles, Self has earned a reputation as one of the busiest and most versatile musicians in the industry.
Beyond his prolific recording career, Self has been a sought-after studio musician for nearly five decades. He's lent his musical prowess to over 1500 motion pictures, hundreds of television shows, and countless records. His tuba solos have graced the iconic scores of John Williams, including classics like 'Jurassic Park' and 'Home Alone.'
One of Self's standout roles in cinema history was as the "Voice of the Mothership" in Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind.' His unique ability to infuse soulfulness and sensitivity into the tuba has set him apart in a league of his own.
A Dynamic Duo: Jim Self and John Chiodini
'Touch and Go' marks the latest chapter in the enduring collaboration between Jim Self and John Chiodini. Their musical partnership has already produced three remarkable duo jazz albums and another alongside the David Angel Jazz Ensemble. Chiodini, like Self, boasts an impressive resume. He has graced the stage and studio with legendary artists like Peggy Lee, Buddy DeFranco, and Tony Bennett, solidifying his place in the jazz pantheon.
For this quintet album, Self and Chiodini have assembled a dream team of musicians from the heart of Los Angeles's jazz scene. Ron Stout on trumpet, Ken Wild on bass, and Kendall Kay on drums join the duo to create a harmonious blend of talent. Self shares, "When Chiodini and I talked about who we wanted for this quintet recording, we chose Ron, Ken, and Kendall because of their great jazz playing, impeccable time, and (most of all) for their cooperative and friendly manner."
Unveiling 'Touch and Go'
Jim Self and John Chiodini's 'Touch and Go' is not your ordinary jazz album. It's a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and a shared love for the art of music. Each track on the album is a journey in itself, offering a glimpse into the minds of these two musical maestros.
The album kicks off with the high-energy title track, "Touch and Go," penned by Self himself. With its exciting 3/4-6/8 hemiola groove, the melody is beautifully brought to life by Ron Stout's trumpet and the unique fluba, a tuba-sized flugelhorn invented by Self.
The album's diversity shines through with Lou Rovner's clever arrangement of Fats Waller's "Ain't Misbehavin'," featuring 7/4 bars and nods to "Tiptoe Through the Tulips." Stout's intimate trio arrangement of Benny Carter's "Only Trust Your Heart" showcases the tuba, flugelhorn, and guitar, creating a mesmerizing musical dialogue.
Chiodini contributes the original composition "Amber," a post-bop gem with a funky blues feel and his signature dense, altered dominant chords. Self fulfills a long-held dream by recording Clare Fischer's "Ornathardy," a tune that required a band as skilled as this quintet to do it justice. Joey Sellers, the trombonist, arranged this cool jazz waltz version, complete with intricate counter melodies.
Ken Wild adds his own touch to the album with a swinging samba arrangement of J.J. Johnson's "Lament." This track holds a special place in Self's heart, as it harks back to a poignant moment in his career during a tour in Japan. The memory of J.J. Johnson playing a heartfelt solo trombone ballad version of "Lament" in tribute to his late wife remains etched in Self's memory.
"Susanne," composed by drummer Kevin Tullius, sees Self and Chiodini perform as a duo, showcasing their exceptional chemistry. John Chiodini's "Prolepsis," arranged by Joey Sellers, delivers a fusion of Latin and swing elements, capturing the essence of anticipation and surprise.
"Triangles," another Self composition, is a medium jazz waltz that effortlessly weaves melodic lines, counterpoint, and fugues. Benny Golson's timeless classic, "Whisper Not," receives a relaxed treatment on this album, allowing the musicians to explore its nuances. Chiodini's "Restless" transports listeners to a smoky Noir dive bar in the 1940s, with its laid-back slow blues and ethereal chorus effect.
The album culminates with the bebop jazz standard "Dig" by Miles Davis, featuring a head played in unison by tuba and bass in the first half, with trumpet and guitar joining in the second half. As tradition dictates, the album concludes with the mournful howls of Stanley the Basset Hound, a signature touch of Basset Hound Records.
Elevating the Tuba: Jim Self's Unique Sound
The tuba, often associated with brass and military bands, finds a new home in the realm of jazz through Jim Self's extraordinary talent. His ability to infuse the instrument with sensitivity and soulfulness transcends traditional boundaries, redefining the tuba's role in contemporary jazz.
However, 'Touch and Go' is not just about Jim Self's tuba mastery; it's a collective celebration of musical artistry. Each member of The Jim Self & John Chiodini Quintet brings their unique skills to the table, resulting in a harmonious blend of sounds that is nothing short of mesmerizing.
A Musical Journey Like No Other: 'Touch and Go'
'Touch and Go' is set to make its mark on the jazz scene, offering listeners a musical journey that transcends boundaries and defies expectations. It's an album that invites you to explore the uncharted territories of jazz, guided by the masterful hands of Jim Self, John Chiodini, and their exceptional quintet.
As the album's release date of October 6, 2023, approaches, jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike can look forward to immersing themselves in the captivating world of 'Touch and Go.' It's a testament to the enduring power of collaboration, creativity, and the boundless possibilities of jazz.
In a world where music often takes us on predictable paths, 'Touch and Go' promises to be a refreshing and exhilarating detour into the heart of jazz innovation. So mark your calendars, jazz aficionados, because this musical odyssey is one you won't want to miss.
Jim Self, John Chiodini, and their quintet are poised to take you on a journey through the world of jazz that is, quite simply, 'Touch and Go.'
Prepare to be amazed.
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