May 1997

Big Band Lausanne and Guests
Cosmos
TCB

By Nancy Ann Lee

Since its 1982 formation, Switzerland's Le Big Band de Lausanne (BBL) has earned international stature. Their fourth release features a 1995 live-recorded performance with guests Joe Lovano (saxophones), Kenny Werner (conductor-arranger/piano), Ratzo Harris (bass), Tom Rainey (drums), and scat vocalist Judi Silvano. Performing two originals by Lovano, three by Werner, and two standards, the BBL mightily meets its challenges. Lovano, who recorded his two tunes with smaller groups, excels in this setting, as does Werner, who demonstrates enormous expertise and artistry as composer-arranger. Cosmos is a jewel.