Dimartino/Osland Jazz Orchestra: Quotient

If you’re just seeking a massive supply of jazz-oriented big-band music, look no further than Quotient by the Lexington, Ky.-based orchestra led by Vince DiMartino (trumpet, flugelhorn) and Miles Osland (alto and soprano saxes, flute). If, however, you want jazz with some creative individuality and a distinctive sound, this nearly 80-minute CD may be a bit of a disappointment.

This relatively unknown 21-piece aggregation is tight, driving and skillful in its clearly well-rehearsed ensembles, yet sags somewhat when it comes to the solo features, especially by players other than the co-leaders, who have the bulk of the time in the spotlight. Both of them display plenty of musical chops, with DiMartino frequently moving into the upper register. Among the other soloists are trombonists Brad Kerns and David Henderson, trumpeter Rick Cook and tenor saxophonist Gordon Towell. The rhythm section of pianist Raleigh Dailey, bassist Danny Cecil and, particularly, drummer John Willmarth keeps things swinging. Vocalist Angie Ortega is added on two tracks.

The best efforts are the title track, “Blues in My Shoes” and “Late Shift Blues,” while things bog down on most of the standards.

Originally Published March 1, 2009