Trumpeter
Steven Bernstein's Millenial Territory orchestra is inspired by the leader hearing some of the exciting late '20s and early '30s recordings of territory bands. While some of the music performed by his nonet is taken from that early period, including "Boy In the Boat," "Happy Hour Blues" and "Toby," they alternate with originals that are sometimes only loosely connected to the style. Even the revivals of vintage songs include adventurous solos and plenty of surprises, so
MTO, Vol. 1 is more of a tribute than a re-creation. The musicians all show versatility, trombonist
Clark Gayton takes particularly impressive solos, and the overall, the music is quite fun. Easily recommended to fans of the
Mingus Big Band and other somewhat riotous ensembles. ~ Scott Yanow