Trumpeter
Don Ellis (1934-1978) led one of the most memorable big bands of all time; actually several of them. During 1965-1975, his orchestras blazed their own unusual path, becoming famous for their utilization of ridiculously complex time signatures (seven/four and nine/four were commonplace for those musicians), a mixture of acoustic and electronic instruments, and a crazy sense of humor. Milcho Leviev's musical career in the United States began when he emigrated from Bulgaria in 1971 to join
Don Ellis' band. Leviev found the unusual time signatures to be second nature and he was featured on "Bulgarian Bulge." A virtuoso who, like
Ellis, could shift easily between classical music and jazz, folk and some pop, Leviev became one of the most notable graduates from the
Ellis Orchestra.
Multiple Personalities: Milcho Leviev Plays the Music of Don Ellis is an unusual project because, in addition to solo piano remakes of a few
Ellis big-band numbers (including "Pussy Wiggle Stomp," "Indian Lady" and "Invincible"), Leviev was chosen to debut some
Don Ellis pieces that were written specifically for the piano. Some are in four/four and a bit boppish, while the final two numbers ("Rain Forest" and "Sugar's Lullaby") are completely written-out classical-oriented works. Leviev's creative imagination uplifts many of the pieces although none of the new works are destined to become future standards. "Blues in Elf," his heartfelt tribute to
Ellis on "Pavane for a True Musical Prince," and his two renditions of "Simple Samba" take honors. This set is well-worth exploring. Now if only a brave soul would organize the New
Don Ellis Orchestra! ~ Scott Yanow