John Fedchock: Hit the Bricks

The accent is on solo playing on Hit the Bricks, an impressive vehicle for John Fedchock, who paid his dues with Woody Herman’s Thundering Herd and his own 16-piece New York Big Band. The combo format provides him more opportunities to stretch out, as well as flex his writing and arranging muscles, which are considerable. The front line of tenor, trumpet and trombone is hard-edged and hard-swinging, and Fedchock shows his ability to execute some audacious ideas. He has few peers in the arena of bop trombone. Check out “Giant Steps” and the jet-propelled title track.

Originally Published April 1, 2001