Veteran trombonist and arranger Phil Wilson, who worked with the big bands of
Woody Herman and
Buddy Rich as well as recording extensively on his own, assembled a band with two fellow Berklee faculty members and the rhythm section from
the Caribbean Jazz Project for a fresh look at the timeless music of
Antonio Carlos Jobim. Matt Marvuglio's warm bass flute complements the leader's trombone very well, while Wilson also displays his whimsical side with the quote-filled out chorus to "Corcovado." Oscar Stagnaro's funky yet soft electric bass adds a novel touch to "Amor Em Paz" and the breezy "One Note Samba." Drummer Mark Walker sets the band afire with his invigorating percussion to open "Chega de Saudade," while guitarist Larry Baione's delicious single-note lines are a key ingredient throughout the sessions. There is ample proof throughout this CD that strong compositions never wear out their welcome, particularly in the hands of musicians like Phil Wilson & His Panamerican All-Stars. ~ Ken Dryden