GRP is best known as a label specializing in slick and accessible jazz, but, in 1992, labelheads
Dave Grusin and
Larry Rosen decided to put together a conventional but star-studded big band comprised of their company's top players. The recordings featured such musicians as
Arturo Sandoval,
Randy Brecker,
Chuck Findley,
Dave Grusin,
Ernie Watts,
Bob Mintzer,
Dave Valentin,
John Patitucci, and even
Tom Scott,
Eric Marienthal,
Nelson Rangell, and
Lee Ritenour playing straightahead charts of jazz standards from the 1950s and '60s. The recordings actually offer few surprises (other than the fact that
Scott and company still remember how to play bop), but are enjoyable outings. ~ Scott Yanow