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Joel Helleny: Lip Service

Trombonist Helleny ably interprets ten selections assisted by Richard Wyands, piano, Murray Wall, bass; Ray Macchiarola, guitar;and Leroy Williams; drums. Guest trombonist Dan Barrett, heard on the “Andy Griffith Theme,” does little to justify this number. Macchiarola is persuasive on “Crazy He Calls Me” while the tasteful Wyands works his magic on “Sweet Pumpkin.” Things get off to a somnolent start with “Stardust” but by the time Helleny gets to the fourth selection, Jobim’s “Zingaro,” he’s picked up intensity.

Originally Published